(1) This section sets out a simplified outline of this Part.
(2) This Part provides for the grant of petroleum special prospecting authorities over blocks in the offshore area.
(3) A petroleum special prospecting authority may be granted over a block so long as none of the following is in force over the block—
(a) a petroleum exploration permit;
(b) a petroleum retention lease;
(c) a petroleum production licence;
(d) a greenhouse gas assessment permit;
(e) a greenhouse gas holding lease;
(f) a greenhouse gas injection licence.
(4) A petroleum special prospecting authority authorises the holder to carry on petroleum exploration operations in the authority area (but not to make a well).
(5) This section is intended only as a guide to readers as to the general scheme and effect of this Part.