Overview of geology and mineralisation in South Australia

Abstract

Numerous small to medium sized deposits of base metals, gold, and uranium, ranging in age from Precambrian to Tertiary, occur in South Australia. In addition, there are significant deposits of coal, iron ore and industrial minerals, which are currently being exploited. However, the mineral potential of the State is best illustrated by the presence of the giant polymetallic Olympic Dam deposit, and large areas of rocks equivalent to those hosting the Broken Hill silver-lead-zinc deposits, located across the border in New South Wales. The majority of South Australia is underlain by prospective Precambrian crustal blocks, which sporadically outcrop, form extensive subcrop, or are concealed by a thin veneer of Recent cover. Exploration for minerals in the State has been hindered by the generally poor outcrop, creating a challenge for mineral explorers. Meeting this challenge will require the extensive use of geophysical exploration methods.