EXPLORATION IN THE AUSTRALIAN TRUST TERRITORY OF NEW GUINEA

Abstract

Petroleum exploration in the Australian Trust Territory began in 1921 as an extension of thé surveys being conducted in Papua by Anglo Persian for the Australian and British Governments. Following an interruption during and after the Second World War. the present phase of petroleum exploration began when Permit 41, New Guinea. was issued on 10th January, 1965. Recent geologic explorations on Permit 41. New Guinea and on Permit 48, New Ireland and New Britain, has added new geologic data that has led to the use of more sophisticated geophysical tools in the Ramu River and Sepik River areas and has moved the exploration activities toward a more mature stage of development.