Crown Minerals (Decommissioning and Other Matters) Amendment Bill
Crown Minerals (Decommissioning and Other Matters) Amendment Bill
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Crown Minerals (Decommissioning and Other Matters) Amendment Bill
Crown Minerals (Decommissioning and Other Matters) Amendment Bill
Government Bill
47—3
As reported from the committee of the whole House
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Hon Dr Megan Woods
Crown Minerals (Decommissioning and Other Matters) Amendment Bill
Government Bill
47—3
Contents
The Parliament of New Zealand enacts as follows:
1 Title
This Act is the Crown Minerals (Decommissioning and Other Matters) Amendment Act 2021.
2 Commencement
(1)
Sections 1 to 16 and 18 to 27 and Schedules 1 and 2 come into force on the day after the date of Royal assent.
(2)
Section 17 also comes into force on the day after the date on which this Act receives the Royal assent, but only to the extent that it relates to—
(a)
sections 89A to 89ZK of the principal Act:
(c)
sections 89ZV to 89ZZU 89ZZV of the principal Act.
(3)
The rest of this Act comes into force—
(a)
on 1 or more dates set by Order in Council; or
(b)
24 months after the date of Royal assent, for any provision in this Act that has not come into force by then.
(4)
An order under this section is secondary legislation (see Part 3 of the Legislation Act 2019 for publication requirements).
3 Principal Act
This Act amends the Crown Minerals Act 1991.
Part 1 Amendments to Part 1
4 Section 2 amended (Interpretation)
(1)
In section 2(1), insert in their appropriate alphabetical order:
decommissioning has the meaning set out in section 89E
petroleum infrastructure has the meaning set out in section 89F
ship has the same meaning as in section 2(1) of the Maritime Transport Act 1993
(2)
In section 2(1), replace the definition of participating interest with:
participating interest,—
(a)
in relation to a permit, means an undivided share of the permit that is expressed as a percentage recorded on the permit:
(b)
in relation to a licence granted under Part 1 of the Petroleum Act 1937, means an undivided share of the licence that is recorded on the licence
(3)
In section 2(1), definition of permit, after “these permits”
, insert “, except in subparts 2 and 3 of Part 1B”
.
5 Section 2B amended (Meaning of Tier 1 permit and Tier 2 permit)
(1)
Repeal section 2B(1)(b).
(2)
In section 2B(1)(e), replace “a permit”
with “an exploration or mining permit”
.
6 Section 2C amended (Determination of permit tier status)
(1)
In section 2C(2)(a), delete “and then once in each permit year”
.
(2)
In section 2C(2)(b), delete “and then once in each permit year”
.
(3)
Repeal section 2C(4).
7 Section 5 amended (Functions of Minister)
In section 5, after paragraph (c), insert:
(ca)
to make decisions on decommissioning petroleum infrastructure and wells, requirements for financial securities, payments for post-decommissioning work, and related matters:
Part 2 Amendments to other Parts of principal Act
8 Section 29A amended (Process for considering application)
(1)
In section 29A(2)(b) and (c), replace “likely”
with “highly likely”
.
(2)
In section 29A(2)(d), replace “is likely”
with “is highly likely”
.
9 Section 32 amended (Right of permit holder to subsequent permits)
In section 32(5A), after “otherwise agree, and”
, insert “, subject to subpart 2 of Part 1B,”
.
9A Section 36 amended (Change to permit)
(1)
In section 36(3), after “as provided by section 35A”
, insert “or to enable the holder of a permit relating to petroleum to complete their decommissioning obligations under subpart 2 of Part 1B, or the holder of a permit relating to minerals to complete rehabilitation work”
.
(2)
In section 36(4), after “under section 35A”
, insert “or to enable the holder of a permit relating to petroleum to complete their decommissioning obligations under subpart 2 of Part 1B, or the holder of a permit relating to minerals to complete rehabilitation work”
.
(3)
In section 36(5), replace “The”
with “Subject to subsection (5AA), the”
.
(4)
After section 36(5), insert:
(5AA)
The duration of any permit may be extended,—
(a)
if the permit relates to petroleum, to enable the permit holder to complete their decommissioning obligations under subpart 2 of Part 1B:
(b)
if the permit relates to minerals, to enable the permit holder to complete rehabilitation work.
10 Section 41 amended (Transfer of interest in permit)
In section 41(6), replace “likely”
with “highly likely”
.
11 Section 41AE amended (When Minister may consent to change of control of permit operator)
(1)
In section 41AE(1)(a)(ii) and (iii), replace “likely”
with “highly likely”
.
(2)
In section 41AE(1)(b), replace “is likely”
with “is highly likely”
.
12 Section 41C amended (Change of permit operator)
In section 41C(3)(a) and (b)(i), replace “likely”
with “highly likely”
.
13 Section 41D amended (General provisions relating to transfers, dealings, and changes of permit operator)
After section 41D(4)(b), insert:
(c)
subpart 2 of Part 1B.
14 New subpart 1 heading in Part 1B inserted
After the Part 1B heading, insert:
Subpart 1—Permits, access to land, and title notations
15 New cross-heading above section 42 inserted
After section 41D, insert:
Surveys
16 New sections 42B and 42C and cross-headings inserted
After section 42A, insert:
Field development plans in respect of petroleum mining permits and licences
42B Field development plans to be submitted to chief executive
(1)
The holder of a petroleum mining permit granted under this Act or a petroleum mining licence granted under the Petroleum Act 1937 (A) must submit a field development plan to the chief executive—
(a)
at the prescribed times; or(if any); and
(b)
within a specified time of the occurrence of prescribed events (if any); and
(c)
on request from the Minister, within any reasonable time specified in the request.
(2)
The field development plan must—
(a)
detail the planned development of the field over its anticipated productive life; and
(c)
be accurate as at the date of submission to the chief executive; and
(d)
contain the prescribed information (if any); and
(f)
meet any further prescribed requirements.
Notice of expected cessation and notice of cessation of petroleum fields
42C Notice of expected cessation and notice of cessation
(1)
The holder of a petroleum mining permit granted under this Act or a petroleum mining licence granted under the Petroleum Act 1937 (A) must submit a notice of expected cessation to the chief executive—
(a)
at the prescribed times; or(if any); and
(b)
within a specified time of the occurrence of prescribed events (if any); or; and
(c)
on request from the Minister, within any reasonable time specified in the request.
(2)
The notice of expected cessation must—
(a)
specify when A currently expects the field to permanently cease production; and
(b)
contain the prescribed information (if any); and
(d)
meet any further prescribed requirements.
(3)
If the field permanently ceases production, A must give the chief executive notice of that cessation as soon as practicable and not later than 20 working days after cessation.
17 New subparts 2 to 5 of Part 1B inserted
After section 89, insert:
Subpart 2—Decommissioning of petroleum infrastructure and wells
89A Application of this subpart
This subpart applies to—
(a)
a permit holder:
(b)
any person who applies for a permit before commencement if the application has not been determined on commencement:
(c)
a licence holder:
(d)
a person who transfers a permit or licence or all or part of a participating interest in a permit or licence on or after commencement, and a person to whom the permit or licence or all or part of a participating interest is transferred:
(e)
a person who on commencement held a permit which has subsequently expired, been surrendered, or revoked (former permit holder):
(f)
a person who on commencement held a licence which has subsequently expired, been surrendered, or revoked (former licence holder).
89B Relationship between this subpart and other enactments
(1)
This subpart does not limit or affect any person’s obligations under another enactment (for example, the Resource Management Act 1991, the Exclusive Economic Zone and Continental Shelf (Environmental Effects) Act 2012, or the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015).
(2)
Any requirement under this subpart for a person to supply information does not replace or limit any requirement for that person to supply information under other provisions in this Act or another enactment.
(3)
An exemption granted under this subpart from complying with a decommissioning requirement under this subpart does not exempt the person from complying with another enactment.
89C Relationship between sections 42B and 42C, this subpart, and existing conditions of permits and licences
(1)
If the requirements of sections 42B and 42C and this subpart (the provisions) duplicate or overlap with those conditions of a permit or licence imposed before commencement, the provisions and any conditions imposed under this subpart prevail, in the event and to the extent of any inconsistency between this subpart and the conditions imposed before commencement.
(2)
On commencement, each permit and licence is deemed to contain a condition that repeats the provisions of subsection (1).
89D Interpretation
In this subpart, unless the context otherwise requires,—
commencement, in relation to any provision in this subpart, means the day on which that provision commences
current licence holder means the holder of a licence that is in force
current permit holder means the holder of a current permit
licence means a prospecting licence or a mining licence granted under Part 1 of the Petroleum Act 1937 to prospect or mine for petroleum
permit means a permit to explore for petroleum or a petroleum mining permit granted under this Act
petroleum infrastructure has the meaning set out in section 89F
plugging and abandonment, in relation to a well, has the meaning set out in section 89Q
well—
(a)
means a borehole drilled or re-entered for the purposes of exploring for, appraising, or extracting petroleum; and
(b)
includes—
(i)
any borehole used for injection or reinjection purposes; and
(ii)
any down-hole pressure-containing equipment; and
(iii)
the wellhead; and
(iv)
any other prescribed thing
wellhead means any pressure-containing equipment on top of the well.
89E Decommissioning
(1)
In this Act, unless the context otherwise requires, decommissioning, in relation to any petroleum infrastructure or a well,—
(a)
means an activity undertaken under any enactment (for example, the Resource Management Act 1991, the Exclusive Economic Zone and Continental Shelf (Environmental Effects) Act 2012, or the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015), and in accordance with any requirements or standards set by or under that enactment or imposed by a regulatory agency, to take out of service permanently petroleum infrastructure or a well used for prospecting or exploring for, or mining of, petroleum; and
(b)
includes (without limitation) and to the extent required by this Act or another enactment or by standards or by a regulatory agency,—
(i)
removing petroleum infrastructure; and
(ii)
plugging and abandoning a well; and
(iii)
undertaking site restoration when production of a well ceases (for whatever reason); and
(iv)
any other prescribed activity in relation to any petroleum infrastructure, or well drilled for the purposes of exploring or prospecting for, or mining of, petroleum.
(3)
However, if in relation to petroleum infrastructure, no other enactment, relevant standard, or requirement by a regulatory agency contains any requirements or standards relating to the method of decommissioning a particular item of petroleum infrastructure, that infrastructure must be decommissioned by totally removing it.
(4)
Despite subsection (3), an item of infrastructure left in place in accordance with a process set out in the regulations (if any) must be treated as having been decommissioned.
89F Petroleum infrastructure
In this Act, unless the context otherwise requires, petroleum infrastructure—
(a)
means—
(i)
a structure (within the meaning of section 101A) or vessel used onshore or offshore for the purpose of exploring for, or mining of, or processing, petroleum—
(A)
up until the point when the petroleum enters infrastructure used by a person other than a current permit holder or licence holder; and
(B)
up until the point when the infrastructure is used for distributing or transporting the petroleum, or otherwise ceases to be part of the system for producing petroleum:
(ii)
any equipment attached to, or used in connection with, a structure, well, vessel, or site, including cables, pipelines, flow-lines, gas lift lines, umbilicals, manifolds, and moorings:
(iv)
any other prescribed thing or class of thing used in connection with, prospecting or exploring for, or mining of, petroleum; but
(b)
does not include—
(i)
a well:
(ii)
any unmoored ship:
(iii)
any vehicle:
(iv)
any other prescribed thing or class of thing.
89G Conditions relating to decommissioning
(1)
This section applies—
(a)
if the Minister, on or after commencement, grants a permit:
(b)
if the Minister, on or after commencement, consents to the transfer of all or part of a participating interest in a permit under section 41 of this Act or consents to the transfer of a licence or all or part of a participating interest in a licence under the Petroleum Act 1937 (as preserved by clause 12(1)(a) of Schedule 1 of this Act), as the case requires:
(c)
at any time on or after commencement while a permit or licence (whenever granted) is in force.
(2)
The Minister may (on the grant of a permit, or on giving consent to the transfer of a licence or all or part of a participating interest in a permit or licence, or on giving consent to a change of control, or when agreeing or determining the amount or kind of financial security required, or when specifying a timetable for decommissioning, or if the permit or licence holder consents) impose or vary conditions on the permit or licence holder in relation to the decommissioning of petroleum infrastructure or a well.
89I Meaning of relevant older petroleum infrastructure
(1)
In this subpart, relevant older petroleum infrastructure—
(a)
means,—
(i)
in relation to a current or former permit holder, petroleum infrastructure—
(A)
put in place or used by a permit holder or licence holder (whether the current permit holder or a different permit holder or licence holder) under a permit that was exchanged for the current permit or the former permit under section 32 of this Act or otherwise exchanged on the same day (for example, as evidenced by any notation on a document linking an exploration permit to a current mining permit); and
(B)
that was in place at the time the exchange occurred:
(ia)
also, in relation to a current or former permit holder, petroleum infrastructure put in place or used by a permit holder or licence holder (whether the current permit holder or a different permit holder or licence holder)—
(A)
in a part of the permit area or licence area of any former holder’s permit or licence that was subsequently relinquished or surrendered and included on the same day in the permit area of the current permit or included on the same day in a previous permit area or licence area and then subsequently included in the permit area of the current permit; or
(B)
anywhere outside the permit area or licence area, but used solely to facilitate activities conducted in the permit or licence area to be relinquished or surrendered:
(ii)
in relation to a current or former licence holder, petroleum infrastructure—
(A)
put in place or used by a licence holder (whether the current licence holder or a different licence holder) under a licence that was exchanged for the current licence or the former licence under section 9(3) or sections 11 and 12, or any other relevant provisions, of the Petroleum Act 1937 (as they read at the time of the exchange) or otherwise exchanged on the same day; and
(B)
that was in place at the time the exchange occurred:
(iia)
also, in relation to a current or former licence holder, petroleum infrastructure put in place or used by a licence holder (whether the current licence holder or a different licence holder)—
(A)
in a part of the licence area or licence area of any former licence holder that was subsequently surrendered and included on the same day in the licence area of the current licence or included on the same day in a previous licence area and then subsequently included in the licence area of the current licence; or
(B)
anywhere outside the licence area but used solely to facilitate activities conducted in the licence area to be surrendered:
(iii)
also includes any class, or item, of petroleum infrastructure declared by the regulations, in relation to a class of, or individual, permit or licence holders, to be relevant older petroleum infrastructure (irrespective of whether any of the preceding paragraphs apply to the class or item of petroleum infrastructure); but
(b)
excludes any class, or item, of petroleum infrastructure declared by the regulations, in relation to a class of, or individual, current permit or licence holders, not to be relevant older petroleum infrastructure (irrespective of whether any of the preceding subparagraphs apply to the class or item of petroleum infrastructure).
(2)
In this section and section 89J,—
(a)
any reference to a permit or a former permit includes a permit or former permit of any kind:
(b)
any reference to a licence or former licence includes a licence or former licence of any kind.
89J Meaning of relevant older well
In this subpart, relevant older well—
(a)
means,—
(i)
in relation to a current or former permit holder, a well—
(A)
drilled or used by a permit holder or licence holder (whether the current permit holder or a different permit holder or licence holder) under a permit or licence that was exchanged for the current permit under section 32 of this Act or otherwise exchanged on the same day (for example, as evidenced by any notation on a document linking an exploration permit to a mining permit); and
(B)
that was in place at the time the exchange occurred:
(ia)
also, in relation to a current or former permit holder, a well drilled or used by a permit holder or licence holder (whether the current permit holder or a different permit holder or licence holder)—
(A)
in a part of the permit area or licence area of any former holder’s permit or licence that was subsequently relinquished or surrendered and included on the same day in a permit area of the current permit or included on the same day in a previous permit area or licence area and then subsequently included in the permit area of the current permit; or
(B)
anywhere outside the permit area or licence area, but used solely to facilitate activities conducted in the permit or licence area to be relinquished or surrendered:
(ii)
in relation to a current or former licence holder, a well—
(A)
drilled or used by a licence holder (whether the current licence holder or a different licence holder) under a licence that was exchanged for the current licence under section 9(3) or sections 11 and 12, or any other relevant provisions, of the Petroleum Act 1937 (as they read at the time of the exchange) or otherwise exchanged on the same day; and
(B)
that was in place at the time the exchange occurred:
(iia)
also, in relation to a current or former licence holder, any well put in place or used by the current licence holder or a different licence holder—
(A)
in a part of the licence area or licence area of any former holder’s licence that was subsequently surrendered and included on the same day in the licence area of the current licence or included on the same day in a previous licence area and then subsequently included in the licence area of the current licence; or
(B)
anywhere outside the licence area, but used solely to facilitate activities conducted in the licence area to be surrendered:
(iib)
any well included in the permit area of a current licence or permit that was used to delineate or appraise a deposit or trace occurrence of petroleum that the current permit or licence relates to (whether that well was drilled under the current licence or permit or a former licence or permit):
(iii)
also any class of well or individual well declared in the regulations, in relation to a class of, or individual, permit or licence holders, to be a relevant older well (irrespective of whether any of the preceding subparagraphs apply to the class of well or individual well); but
(b)
excludes any class of well declared by the regulations, in relation to a class of current permit or licence holders, not to be a relevant older well (irrespective of whether any of the preceding subparagraphs apply to the class of well or individual well).
Decommissioning obligations for petroleum infrastructure
89K Obligations of permit holders, transferors, and transferees: decommissioning of petroleum infrastructure
(1)
A person who holds or will hold a permit at the time the obligation to decommission is required to be completed must carry out, and meet the costs of, the decommissioning of all petroleum infrastructure—
(a)
put in place or used for the purposes of carrying out, or otherwise related to, activities authorised by the current permit (whenever granted), and all relevant older petroleum infrastructure; or; and
(b)
in a case where only part of the permit area is to be relinquished or surrendered, located in the area of the permit that is to be relinquished or surrendered, and all relevant older petroleum infrastructure.
(2)
A person with a participating interest in a permit (whenever granted) who transfers all or any part of their participating interest in the permit on or after commencement, but before decommissioning is completed, must meet the costs of decommissioning all petroleum infrastructure—
(a)
that is—
(i)
put in place or used for the purposes of carrying out, or otherwise related to, activities authorised by the current permit:
(ii)
relevant older petroleum infrastructure; and
(b)
that is in place when consent to the transfer is given under section 41.
(3)
Subsection (2) does not apply in respect of all or any part of a participating interest in a permit that is transferred to the Minister.
(4)
A transfer of a participating interest in a permit is effective on and after the date of the Minister’s consent to that transfer under section 41.
(5)
Subsections (1), (2), and (4) are subject to sections 89M and 89N.
89L Obligations of licence holders, transferors, and transferees: decommissioning of petroleum infrastructure
(1)
A person who holds or will hold a licence at the time the obligation to decommission is required to be completed must carry out, and meet the costs of, the decommissioning of all petroleum infrastructure—
(a)
put in place or used for the purpose of carrying out, or otherwise related to, activities authorised by the current licence (whenever granted), and all relevant older petroleum infrastructure; or and
(b)
in a case where only part of the licence area is to be surrendered, located in the area of the licence that is to be surrendered, and all relevant older petroleum infrastructure.
(2)
A licence holder or any person with a participating interest in a licence who transfers the licence, or all or any part of their participating interest in the licence, on or after commencement but before decommissioning is completed must meet the costs of decommissioning all petroleum infrastructure—
(a)
that is—
(i)
put in place or used for the purposes of carrying out, or otherwise related to, activities authorised by the licence:
(ii)
relevant older petroleum infrastructure; and
(b)
that is in place when consent to the transfer is given under the Petroleum Act 1937 (as preserved by clause 12(1)(a) of Schedule 1 of this Act).
(3)
Subsection (2) does not apply in respect of a licence, or all or any part of a participating interest in a licence, that is transferred to the Minister.
(4)
A transfer of a licence or a participating interest in a licence is effective on settlement of the agreement to transfer the licence or the interest in the licence.
(5)
Subsections (1), (2), and (4) are subject to sections 89M and 89N.
89M Further obligations on transferors and transferees and Minister
(1)
This section applies to—
(a)
a person (person A) who, on or after commencement, intends to transfer a licence or all or any part of a participating interest in a permit or a licence; and
(b)
a person (person B) who intends to acquire, on or after commencement from person A, a licence or all or any part of a participating interest in a permit or licence; and
(c)
the Minister.
(2)
Person A continues (to the extent provided in section 89N) to be liable for meeting the costs of decommissioning any petroleum infrastructure—
(a)
that is—
(i)
put in place or used for the purpose of carrying out, or otherwise related to, activities authorised by the permit or licence:
(ii)
relevant older petroleum infrastructure; and
(b)
that is in place when consent to the transfer is given under section 41 of this Act or under the Petroleum Act 1937 (as preserved by clause 12(1)(a) of Schedule 1 of this Act), as the case requires.
(3)
The Minister, before consenting to the transfer of a licence or a participating interest in a permit or licence, must be satisfied that person B has, in accordance with the directions of the Minister,—
(a)
entered into a financial security (with all the other persons with a participating interest in the licence or permit) that a permit holder or licence holder is required to obtain and maintain in accordance with sections 89ZE to 89ZK and within the time specified by the Minister; or
(b)
become a party to an existing financial security (entered into by all the other persons with a participating interest in the licence or permit) that was entered into previously in accordance with those sections, and within the time specified by the Minister.
(4)
A financial security referred to in subsection (3) may also be designed and operate to satisfy the requirements of section 89T(3).
(5)
If person B fails to comply with subsection (3),—
(b)
to the extent provided in section 89N, person A continues to be liable to meet the costs incurred in meeting the decommissioning obligations under this subpart in relation to the licence or participating interest in the licence or permit; and
(c)
person A must be treated as continuing to be the holder of the licence or the participating interest in the permit or licence that was the subject of the transfer.
89N Extent of liability of former permit and licence holders under sections 89K(2) and 89L(2)
(1)
One or more persons who are liable to meet the costs of decommissioning under section 89K(2) or 89L(2) are only liable to meet those costs if, or to the extent that, those costs are not met by the persons referred to in section 89K(1) or 89L(1).
(2)
Persons who are liable to meet the costs of decommissioning that are not met by the persons referred to in section 89K(1) or 89L(1) are liable, in the following order of priority, to meet those costs:
(a)
the former licence or permit holder or person with a participating interest in a licence or permit (person B) who most recently transferred their licence or participating interest in the licence or permit to a person (person A) who is the current licence holder or a current holder of a participating interest in the permit or licence (as the case requires):
(b)
if there are still any unpaid decommissioning costs, the person (person C) who most recently after person B transferred the licence or a participating interest in the licence or permit to another person (as the case requires):
(c)
if there are still any unpaid decommissioning costs, the person (person D) who most recently after person C transferred the licence or a participating interest in the licence or permit to another person (as the case requires):
(d)
if there are still any unpaid decommissioning costs, the person (person E) who most recently after person D transferred the licence or a participating interest in the licence or permit to another person (as the case requires):
(e)
if there are still unpaid decommissioning costs, and there are still earlier former licence holders or former holders of a participating interest in a permit or licence, then those persons are liable, in an order of priority consistent with the formula in paragraphs (a) to (d), for the unpaid decommissioning costs.
89O When decommissioning obligations of persons under section 89K, 89L, or 89M arise
(1)
Any person liable to carry out, or meet the costs of, decommissioning petroleum infrastructure, or both, under section 89K, 89L, or 89M, must carry out their obligations by before the earliest of the following:
(aa)
in a case where production permanently ceases in the area of the current permit or licence before the permit or licence expires,—
(i)
by a date or dates agreed with the Minister for the completion of the decommissioning and the completion of earlier milestones in the decommissioning process; or
(ii)
if there is no such agreed date or dates, by a date that is 2 years before the expiry of the current licence or permit, by a date or dates specified by the Minister by notice in writing to the person:
(a)
the expiry or surrender of the current permit or licence:
(ab)
in a case where only part of the current permit area or licence area is to be relinquished or surrendered, before the Minister approves the partial relinquishment or surrender of the permit under section 35C or 40 of this Act or the partial surrender of a licence under the Petroleum Act 1937 (as preserved under clause 12(a) of Schedule 1 of this Act):
(2)
However, if a permit or licence is revoked, the person who held the permit or licence immediately before it was revoked must carry out their decommissioning obligations under this subpart by a time agreed with, or specified by, the Minister.
(3)
To avoid doubt,—
(a)
the obligations imposed by subsections (1) and (2) continue in force even if—
(i)
the relevant permit or licence has expired or has been surrendered or revoked:
(ii)
the relevant person has ceased to be a permit or licence holder or the holder of any participating interest in a licence or permit; and
(b)
a person may carry out their obligations under subsections (1) and (2) even if their permit or licence has expired, or has been revoked, or, as the case requires, relinquished or surrendered.
(5)
A permit holder or licence holder also acts in breach of their decommissioning obligations if they—
(a)
give notice under section 42C(3) (notice of cessation of production); but
(b)
fail within a period after that notice agreed with the Minister, or in the event that there is no agreement, within a period after that notice specified by the Minister, to complete milestones agreed or specified under subsection (1)(aa) to decommission the petroleum infrastructure for which they will be responsible for decommissioning, or fail to obtain an extension to that date or those dates from the Minister.
(6)
A certificate issued by the chief executive as to the date when decommissioning obligations took effect under this section—
(a)
must be given to the person who has those obligations as soon as practicable after they take effect; and
(b)
is conclusive evidence in any proceedings under this Act, in the absence of proof to the contrary, of when those obligations took effect.
89OA Criteria for agreeing or setting time frames for decommissioning
When considering under section 89O what date or dates for decommissioning are to be agreed, or specified, by the Minister, the Minister must consider—
(a)
the size of the field to be decommissioned:
(b)
the complexity of the required decommissioning:
(c)
the subpart 2 decommissioning plan:
(d)
the estimated decommissioning cost decommissioning cost estimate:
(e)
the estimated date on which production in the field will cease:
(f)
the time required to comply with requirements under other enactments before decommissioning can commence or be completed:
(g)
any other matters the Minister considers relevant.
89P Joint and several liability
(1)
Subsection (2) applies if section 89K applies and there is a permit holder who is 2 or more persons.
(2)
Each person to whom this subsection applies is jointly and severally liable to perform the obligations of the permit holder in carrying out, and meeting the costs of, decommissioning petroleum infrastructure.
(4)
Subsection (5) applies if section 89L applies and there is a licence holder who is 2 or more persons.
(5)
Each person to whom this subsection applies is jointly and severally liable to perform the obligations of the licence holder in relation to carrying out, and meeting the costs of, decommissioning petroleum infrastructure.
Plugging and abandonment of wells
89Q What is plugging and abandonment of well
A well is plugged and abandoned when—
(a)
the well is sealed in order to make it permanently inoperable; and
(b)
the sealing is conducted in accordance with any relevant enactment or standard, and the requirements of any regulatory authority; and
(c)
the wellhead is removed; and
(d)
any remediation of the site required by another enactment is completed; and
(e)
any other prescribed action required to plug and abandon the well is completed.
Decommissioning obligations in relation to wells
89R Obligations of permit holders, transferors, and transferees: decommissioning of wells
(1)
A person who holds or will hold a permit at the time the obligation to plug and abandon 1 or more wells is required to be completed must carry out, and meet the costs of, the plugging and abandoning of all wells—
(a)
drilled or used for the purposes of carrying out, or otherwise related to, activities authorised by the current permit (whenever granted), and all relevant older wells; or; and
(b)
in a case where only part of the permit area is to be relinquished or surrendered, located in the area of the permit that is to be relinquished or surrendered and all relevant older wells.
(2)
A person with a participating interest in a permit (whenever granted) who transfers all or any part of their interest in the permit on or after commencement, but before decommissioning is completed, must meet the costs of plugging and abandoning all wells—
(a)
that are—
(i)
drilled or used for the purposes of carrying out, or otherwise related to, activities authorised by the current permit:
(ii)
relevant older wells; and
(b)
that are in place when consent to the transfer is given under section 41.
(3)
Subsection (2) does not apply in respect of all or any part of a participating interest in a permit that is transferred to the Minister.
(4)
A transfer of a participating interest in a permit is effective on and after the date of the Minister’s consent to that transfer under section 41.
(5)
Subsections (1) and (2) are subject to sections 89T and 89U.
89S Obligations of licence holders, transferors, and transferees: decommissioning of wells
(1)
A person who holds or will hold a licence at the time the obligation to plug and abandon 1 or more wells is required to be completed must carry out, and meet the costs of, plugging and abandoning all wells—
(a)
drilled or used for the purposes of, or otherwise related to, activities authorised by the current licence, and all relevant older wells; and
(b)
in a case where only part of the licence area is to be surrendered, located in the area of the licence that is to be surrendered, and all relevant older wells.
(2)
A licence holder or person with a participating interest in a licence who transfers the licence, or all or any part of their participating interest in the licence, on or after commencement but before decommissioning is completed must meet the costs of plugging and abandoning all wells—
(a)
that are—
(i)
drilled or used for the purposes of carrying out activities authorised by, or otherwise related to, the licence:
(ii)
relevant older wells; and
(b)
that are in place when consent to the transfer is given under the Petroleum Act 1937 (as preserved by clause 12(1)(a) of Schedule 1 of this Act).
(3)
Subsection (2) does not apply in respect of any licence or all or part of a participating interest in a licence that is transferred to the Minister.
(4)
A transfer of a licence or a participating interest in a licence is effective on settlement of the agreement to transfer the licence or the interest in the licence.
(5)
Subsections (1) and (2) are subject to sections 89T and 89U.
89T Further obligations on transferors and transferees and Minister
(1)
This section applies to—
(a)
a person (person A) who, on or after commencement, intends to transfer a licence or all or any part of a participating interest in a permit or a licence; and
(b)
a person (person B) who intends to acquire, on or after commencement, from person A a licence or all or part of a participating interest in a permit or licence.
(2)
Person A continues (to the extent provided in section 89U) to be liable for meeting the costs of plugging and abandoning a well—
(a)
that is—
(i)
put in place or used for the purposes of carrying out, or otherwise related to, activities authorised by the permit or licence:
(ii)
a relevant older well; and
(b)
that is in place when the transfer is consented to under section 41 of this Act or under the Petroleum Act 1937 (as preserved by clause 12(1)(a) of Schedule 1 of this Act), as the case requires.
(3)
The Minister, before consenting to the transfer of a licence or a participating interest in a permit or licence, must be satisfied that person B has, in accordance with the directions of the Minister,—
(a)
entered into a financial security (with all the other persons with a participating interest in the licence or permit) that a permit holder or licence holder is required to obtain and maintain in accordance with sections 89ZE to 89ZK and within the time specified by the Minister; or
(b)
become a party to an existing financial security (entered into by all the other persons with a participating interest in the licence or permit) that was entered into previously in accordance with those sections, and within the time specified by the Minister.
(4)
A financial security referred to in subsection (3) may also be designed and operate to satisfy the requirements of section 89M(3).
(5)
If person B fails to comply with subsection (3),—
(b)
to the extent provided in section 89U, person A continues to be liable to meet the costs incurred in meeting the decommissioning obligations under this subpart in relation to the licence or participating interest in the licence; and
(c)
person A must be treated as continuing to be the holder of the licence or the participating interest in the permit or licence that was the subject of the transfer.
89U Extent of liability of former permit and licence holders under sections 89R and 89S
(1)
One or more persons who are liable to meet the costs of plugging and abandonment under section 89R(2) or 89S(2) are only liable to meet those costs if, or to the extent that, those costs are not met by the persons referred to in section 89R(1) or 89S(1).
(2)
Persons who are liable to meet the costs of decommissioning that are not met by the persons referred to in section 89R(1) or 89S(1) are liable, in the following order of priority, to meet those costs:
(a)
the former licence or permit holder or person with a participating interest in a licence or a permit (person B) who most recently transferred their licence or participating interest in the licence or permit to a person (person A) who is the current licence holder or a current holder of a participating interest in the permit or licence (as the case requires):
(b)
if there are still any unpaid decommissioning costs, the person (person C) who most recently after person B transferred the licence or a participating interest in the licence or permit to another person (as the case requires):
(c)
if there are still any unpaid decommissioning costs, the person (person D) who most recently after person C transferred the licence or a participating interest in the licence or permit to another person (as the case requires):
(d)
if there are still any unpaid decommissioning costs, the person (person E) who most recently after person D transferred the licence or a participating interest in the licence or permit to another person (as the case requires):
(e)
if there are still unpaid decommissioning costs, and there are still earlier former licence holders or former holders of a participating interest in a permit or licence, then those persons are liable, in an order of priority consistent with the formula in paragraphs (a) to (d), for the unpaid decommissioning costs.
89V When decommissioning obligations of permit holders, licence holders, and other persons under section 89R, 89S, or 89T arise
(1)
A person liable to carry out, or meet costs of, plugging and abandoning wells, or both, under section 89R, 89S, or 89T must carry out their obligations by before the earliest of the following:
(aa)
in a case where production permanently ceases in the area of the current permit or licence before the permit or licence expires,—
(i)
by a date or dates agreed with the Minister for the completion of the decommissioning and the date or dates of completion of earlier milestones in the decommissioning process; or
(ii)
if there is no such agreed date by the date or dates, that is 2 years before the expiry of the current licence or permit, by a date or dates specified by the Minister by notice in writing to the person:
(a)
the expiry or surrender of the current permit or licence:
(ab)
in a case where only part of the current permit area or licence area is to be relinquished or surrendered, before the Minister approves the partial relinquishment or surrender of the permit under section 35C or 40 of this Act or the partial surrender of a licence under the Petroleum Act 1937 (as preserved under clause 12(a) of Schedule 1 of this Act).
(2)
However, if a permit or licence is revoked, the person who held the permit or licence immediately before it was revoked must carry out their decommissioning obligations under this subpart by a time agreed with, or specified by, the Minister.
(3)
To avoid doubt, the obligations imposed by subsections (1) and (2) continue in force even if—
(a)
the relevant permit or licence has expired or has been surrendered or revoked:
(b)
the relevant person has ceased to be a permit or licence holder or the holder of any participating interest in a licence or permit.
(5)
A permit holder or licence holder also acts in breach of their decommissioning obligations if they—
(a)
give notice under section 42C(3) (notice of cessation of production); but
(b)
fail within a period after that notice agreed with the Minister, or in the event that there is no agreement, within a period after that notice specified by the Minister, to complete milestones agreed or specified under subsection (1)(aa) to decommission the petroleum infrastructure plug and abandon the well or wells for which they will be responsible for decommissioning, or fail to obtain an extension to that date or those dates from the Minister.
(6)
A certificate issued by the chief executive as to the date when decommissioning obligations took effect under this section—
(a)
must be given to the person who has those obligations as soon as practicable after they take effect; and
(b)
is conclusive evidence, in any proceedings under this Act, in the absence of proof to the contrary, of when those obligations took effect.
89VA Criteria for agreeing or setting time frames for decommissioning of wells
When considering under section 89V what date or dates for decommissioning are to be agreed, or specified, by the Minister, the Minister must consider—
(a)
the size of the field to be decommissioned:
(b)
the complexity of the required decommissioning:
(c)
the subpart 2 decommissioning plan:
(d)
the decommissioning cost estimate:
(e)
the estimated date on which production in the field will cease:
(f)
the time required to comply with requirements under other enactments before decommissioning can commence or be completed:
(g)
any other matters the Minister considers relevant.
89W Joint and several liability
(1)
Subsection (2) applies if section 89R applies and there is a permit holder who is 2 or more persons.
(2)
Each person to whom this subsection applies is jointly and severally liable to comply with and perform the obligations of the permit holder in relation to carrying out, and meeting the costs of, plugging and abandoning wells.
(4)
Subsection (5) applies if section 89S applies and there is a licence holder who is 2 or more persons.
(5)
Each person to whom this subsection applies is jointly and severally liable to perform the obligations of the licence holder in relation to carrying out, and meeting the costs of, plugging and abandoning wells.
Exemptions and deferrals
89X Exemption and deferral powers of Minister
(1)
The Minister may, on application or on their own initiative, and if they consider it appropriate,—
(a)
exempt a permit holder or licence holder from the requirements of this subpart to decommission a particular item of petroleum infrastructure or to plug and abandon a particular well; or
(b)
defer the time for complying with an obligation to decommission a particular item of petroleum infrastructure or to plug and abandon a particular well.
(2)
The Minister may—
(a)
grant an exemption or a deferral on any terms and conditions that they consider appropriate:
(b)
amend or revoke an exemption or a deferral:
(c)
grant an exemption for an indefinite or a limited period:
(d)
replace an exemption or a deferral either before or when it expires.
(3)
An application under subsection (1) must be made in the prescribed manner (if any) and be accompanied by the prescribed fee (if any).
(3A)
If the Minister grants an exemption or a deferral under this section, the Minister must provide the licence holder or permit holder with reasons for their decision and state them in the notice of exemption or deferral.
(4)
Class exemptions and class deferrals may be granted by regulations (see section 105).
89Y Criteria for granting exemption
(1)
Before granting an exemption under section 89X, the Minister must—
(a)
be satisfied—
(i)
that the requirements are unreasonable or inappropriate in the particular case; or
(ii)
that events have occurred that make the requirements unnecessary or inappropriate in the particular case; and; or
(b)
be satisfied that the petroleum infrastructure or well in question will be used for a purpose other than exploration for, or mining of, petroleum by the person to be granted the exemption.
(2)
For the purposes of applying subsection (1)(b), the Minister may consider the following matters:
(a)
the ownership of the petroleum infrastructure or well in question:
(b)
any prescribed criteria:
(c)
any other matter the Minister considers relevant.
89Z Criteria for grant of deferral
(1)
Before granting a deferral under section 89X, the Minister must be satisfied that it is appropriate in the circumstances to defer the obligation to meet the requirements to a later date in the particular case.
(2)
For the purposes of applying subsection (1), the Minister must consider—
(a)
whether there is economic value to the owners of the petroleum infrastructure or well in deferring the decommissioning of that petroleum infrastructure or plugging and abandoning that well:
(b)
the impact of failing to grant a deferral on the operation of associated petroleum infrastructure and wells:
(c)
any plans for field development:
(d)
the likelihood of an increase or a decrease in the costs of decommissioning during any deferral period, and the extent of that increase, so far as it can be estimated:
(e)
any other matter the Minister considers relevant.
Reporting requirements
89ZAAA Subpart 2 decommissioning plan
(1)
A person who is, or will be, obliged, under this subpart, to carry out and meet the costs of decommissioning must submit a subpart 2 decommissioning plan to the chief executive—
(a)
at the prescribed times (if any); and
(b)
within a specified time of the occurrence of prescribed events (if any); and
(c)
on request from the Minister, within any reasonable time specified in the request.
(2)
The subpart 2 decommissioning plan must—
(a)
describe the planned decommissioning activities and the processes to be used to carry out those activities, and set out a proposed schedule for those activities; and
(b)
be accurate as at the date of submission to the chief executive; and
(c)
contain the prescribed information (if any); and
(d)
meet any further prescribed requirements.
89ZAAB Decommissioning cost estimate
(1)
A person who is, or will be, obliged, under this subpart, to carry out and meet the costs of decommissioning must submit a cost estimate of all anticipated decommissioning work (a decommissioning cost estimate) to the chief executive—
(a)
at the prescribed times (if any); and
(b)
within a specified time of the occurrence of prescribed events (if any); and
(c)
on request from the Minister, within any reasonable time specified in the request.
(2)
The decommissioning cost estimate must—
(a)
comply with the standards prescribed (if any) for developing that estimate; and
(b)
meet any further prescribed requirements.
(3)
The Minister may require any person who submits a cost estimate under subsection (1) to supply further information relating to the cost estimate within a time specified by the Minister.
89ZAAC Asset registers to be submitted to chief executive
(1)
A permit holder or licence holder who is obliged, under this subpart, to carry out and meet the costs of decommissioning (A) must submit an asset register to the chief executive—
(a)
at the prescribed times (if any); and
(b)
within a specified time of the occurrence of prescribed events (if any); and
(c)
on request from the Minister, within any reasonable time specified in the request.
(2)
The asset register must—
(a)
be a complete and accurate list of the petroleum infrastructure and wells that A must decommission under sections 89K, 89L, 89R, and 89S; and
(b)
contain the prescribed information (if any); and
(c)
meet any further prescribed requirements.
89ZAAD Decommissioning completion report
(1)
A person who is obliged, under this subpart, to carry out and meet the costs of decommissioning must submit a decommissioning completion report to the chief executive—
(a)
at the prescribed times (if any); and
(b)
within a specified time of the occurrence of prescribed events (if any); and
(c)
on request from the Minister, within any reasonable time specified in the request.
(2)
The decommissioning completion report must—
(a)
contain the prescribed information (if any); and
(b)
meet any further prescribed requirements.
Ongoing monitoring of financial position
89ZA Permit and licence holders must provide information needed to monitor financial position
(1)
A permit holder or licence holder (A) who is, or will be, obliged, under this subpart, to carry out and meet the costs of decommissioning must keep a record of any information prescribed by regulations as relevant and reasonably necessary to enable the Minister to monitor A’s financial position (including in relation to financial securities).
(2)
A must submit a copy of the information to the Minister—
(a)
at the prescribed times (if any); or
(b)
on request from the Minister, within any reasonable time specified in the request.
(3)
The Minister may, by written notice, require the person to provide any further information that the Minister considers relevant and reasonably necessary.
(4)
The person must provide a copy of the information to the Minister—
(a)
in the form and in the manner set out in the notice; and
(b)
within any reasonable time specified in the notice requiring the information.
Financial capability assessments
89ZB Minister may assess financial capability to meet decommissioning obligations
(1)
This section applies to a permit holder or licence holder (A) who is, or will be, obliged, under this subpart, to carry out and meet the costs of decommissioning.
(2)
The Minister may carry out an assessment to determine whether A is highly likely to have the financial capability to carry out and meet the costs of decommissioning (a financial capability assessment).
(3)
The Minister may carry out a financial capability assessment at any time while the relevant permit or licence is in force.
(6)
The Minister may appoint any suitably qualified person to carry out a financial capability assessment on their behalf.
89ZBA Criteria for considering whether to carry out financial capability assessment
When considering whether to carry out a financial capability assessment under section 89ZB, the Minister may take into account—
(a)
information received under the following:
(i)
section 42B (field development plan):
(ii)
section 89ZAAA (decommissioning plan):
(iii)
section 89ZAAB (decommissioning cost estimate):
(iv)
section 89ZAAC (asset register):
(v)
section 89ZA (information needed to monitor financial position); and
(b)
the circumstances of the particular permit holder or licence holder; and
(c)
any information relating to current or emerging risks to the permit holder’s or licence holder’s ability to comply with their obligations under this subpart; and
(d)
any other matters the Minister considers relevant.
89ZBB Process for carrying out financial capability assessment
When carrying out a financial capability assessment under section 89ZB, the Minister—
(a)
may take into account information received under the following:
(i)
section 42B (field development plan):
(ii)
section 89ZAAA (subpart 2 decommissioning plan):
(iii)
section 89ZAAB (decommissioning cost estimate):
(iv)
section 89ZAAC (asset register):
(v)
section 89ZA (information needed to monitor financial performance); and
(b)
may take into account any other information the Minister considers relevant; and
(c)
must meet the prescribed requirements (if any).
89ZBC Minister must notify outcome of financial capability assessment
As soon as practicable after a financial capability assessment under section 89ZB is completed, the Minister must notify the permit holder or licence holder of—
(a)
the Minister’s conclusion as to whether they are highly likely to have the financial capability to carry out and meet the costs of decommissioning; and
(b)
the reasons for that conclusion.
89ZC Relevant persons must provide supporting information
(1)
This section applies to—
(a)
a permit holder or licence holder who may be subject to a financial capability assessment under section 89ZB; and
(b)
any other person the Minister considers is likely to hold information that is relevant and reasonably necessary to carry out the financial capability assessment (for example, parent companies, banks, or auditors).
(2)
The person must keep a record of any information prescribed by regulations as relevant and reasonably necessary to enable the Minister to carry out a financial capability assessment.
(3)
The person must provide a copy of the information to the Minister—
(a)
on or before the prescribed time (if any); or
(b)
on request from the Minister, within any reasonable time specified in the request.
(4)
The Minister may, by written notice, require the person to provide any further information that the Minister considers relevant and reasonably necessary to carry out the financial capability assessment.
(5)
The person must provide a copy of the information to the Minister—
(a)
in the form and in the manner set out in the notice; and
(b)
within any reasonable time specified in the notice requiring the information.
(6)
To avoid doubt, information gathered under this section is subject to section 90A (disclosure of information).
Financial securities
89ZE Permit and licence holders must hold 1 or more financial securities
(1)
A person who holds a permit or a licence (whenever granted) must obtain and maintain 1 or more financial securities, of a kind, and in an amount, determined by the Minister under section 89ZG(1), as security for the performance of their obligations under this subpart in the event that the permit holder or licence holder fails to carry out, or separately meet the costs of, the decommissioning.
(2)
The Minister must, as soon as practicable is reasonably practicable after commencement, give each permit holder or licence holder a notice requiring them—
(a)
to advise the chief executive in the prescribed manner (if any), by a specified date, of the kind of security, and the proposed amount to be secured, that the permit holder or licence holder considers appropriate; and
(b)
to provide any information specified by the Minister to enable the Minister to make decisions on those matters.
(2A)
However, if the permit or licence holder already maintains a financial security of the kind referred to in subsection (1) when they receive notice under subsection (2), they may propose that the Minister approve the continuation of that security (with or without modifications) as the Minister’s determination under subsection (1).
(3)
The permit holder must provide the information referred to in subsection (2)(b) and any proposal under subsection (2A)—
(a)
in the form and manner set out in the notice; and
(b)
within any reasonable time set out in the notice requiring the information.
(3A)
Any financial security referred to in this section is obtained or maintained on behalf of the Crown.
(4)
To avoid doubt, information gathered under this section is subject to section 90A (disclosure of information).
89ZF Matters to which Minister must have regard in setting kind and amount of security
(1)
The Minister must, when determining the amount to be secured and the kind of security to be obtained by a permit holder or licence holder, take into account—
(a)
the information (if any) provided by the permit holder or licence holder under section 89ZE(2)(b) and any proposal under section 89ZE(2A):
(b)
the prescribed criteria (if any) relating to particular kinds and amounts of financial security (including any prescribed hierarchy of securities and whether there is a preferred kind of security in the particular situation):
(c)
the following:
(i)
the estimated cost of decommissioning:
(ii)
the extent to which the amount to be secured will cover the estimated cost of decommissioning:
(iii)
the extent to which the kind of security to be required will ensure that the Crown will obtain payment of the amount in the event the permit holder or licence holder fails to carry out the decommissioning or separately meet those costs:
(d)
the circumstances of the particular permit holder or licence holder:
(e)
the time needed for the particular permit holder or licence holder to comply with their obligations under this subpart, and the time when work will need to start in order to achieve this:
(f)
the estimated cost of the work needed for the particular permit holder or licence holder to complete their obligations under this subpart:
(g)
the estimated administration costs to the particular permit holder or licence holder of meeting and maintaining the security for the required period (including the costs of maintaining any possible increase in the amount required to be secured while the security is in place):
(h)
any information relating to current or emerging risks to the permit holder’s or licence holder’s ability to comply with their obligations under this subpart:
(i)
the conclusions of the most recent financial capability assessment (if any):
(j)
any other matters the Minister considers relevant.
(2)
The Minister may require a permit holder or licence holder to give the Minister any information that the Minister considers will assist them in determining what kind of financial security should be obtained and the amount to be secured.
(3)
The permit holder or licence holder must provide the information—
(a)
in the form and in the manner set out in the notice; and
(b)
within any reasonable time specified in the notice requiring the information.
89ZG Decision of Minister
(1)
The Minister, after following the processes set out in sections 89ZE and 89ZF, must—
(a)
determine—
(i)
the kind of security to be obtained, or entered into, by the permit holder or licence holder; and
(ii)
the amount to be secured; and
(b)
impose any conditions of the financial security in that the Minister considers appropriate.
(1A)
Before making a determination under subsection (1), the Minister must be satisfied that it complies with the prescribed criteria (if any) relating to particular kinds and amounts of financial security to be obtained and maintained.
(2)
The Minister may also direct how the security must be held, in accordance with the prescribed requirements (if any).
(4A)
If the security required is in the form of a bond or a cash deposit paid to the chief executive,—
(a)
if the security relates to a participating interest in a permit, section 97 (except subsection (4)) applies:
(b)
if the security relates to a licence or a participating interest in a licence, section 47H of the Petroleum Act 1937 (as preserved by clause 16 clause 12(1)(a) of Schedule 1 of this Act) applies.
(4B)
If the security required is in the form of a bond or cash or a cash deposit held either in accordance with section 97 or separately by a third party (for example, in an escrow account), the permit holder or licence holder may, with the consent of the Minister, use a part or all of those amounts to carry out the decommissioning to which that security relates.
(5)
The Minister must give the permit holder or licence holder a notice of the Minister’s decision specifying—
(a)
the kind of financial security to be obtained:
(b)
the amount to be secured:
(c)
the time by which it must be obtained:
(d)
if applicable, how it is to be held:
(e)
a summary of the reasons for the Minister’s decision.
89ZH Alteration of amount secured or kind of security required
(1)
The Minister may, at any time,—
(a)
require a permit holder or licence holder referred to in section 89ZE(1) to increase the amount for which security is held:
(b)
allow a permit holder or licence holder referred to in section 89ZE(1) to reduce the amount for which security is held:
(c)
require the permit holder or licence holder referred to in section 89ZE(1) to alter the kind of security that is held.
(2)
When exercising a power conferred by subsection (1), the Minister must take into account the matters referred to in section 89ZF(1)(b) and (c)(i) to (viii)section 89ZF(1)(b) to (j).
89ZI Minister must notify required changes in kind of security or amount secured
(1)
The Minister must, after exercising a power under section 89ZH(1)(a), (b), or (c), give the affected permit holder or licence holder written notice of the required or permitted changes to the kind of security to be obtained and maintained or the amount secured and, in a case where section 89ZH(1)(a) or (c) applies, the time by which the permit holder or licence holder must do this.
(2)
The notice must be accompanied by reasons for the required change.
89ZJ Permit holder or licence holder may object to kind of security or amount set or required change to those matters
(1)
A permit holder or licence holder who receives written notice under section 89ZG(4) or 89ZI(1) may within 30 working days of receiving that notice object to the required security or the required change, as the case requires, by notice in writing to the Minister.
(2)
A notice of objection under subsection (1) must be accompanied by reasons for, and evidence or other information supporting, the objection and refer to the criteria in section 89ZF that the objector considers relevant.
(3)
If a permit holder or licence holder makes an objection under subsection (1), they cannot make any subsequent objection to the required security or required change described in the notice unless there is a change in circumstances.
89ZK What happens if permit holder or licence holder makes objection
(1)
If a permit holder or licence holder makes an objection under section 89ZJ, the Minister must—
(a)
give the permit holder or licence holder an opportunity to be heard; and
(b)
consider and determine the objection within a reasonable time after its receipt.
(2)
The Minister must—
(a)
dismiss the objection; or
(b)
uphold the objection in whole or in part.
(3)
Not later than 30 working days after deciding whether to uphold an objection, the Minister must send to the permit holder or licence holder—
(a)
a copy of the decision, which must include the reasons for the decision; and
(b)
written notice of any required or permitted changes to the kind of security to be obtained and maintained or the amount secured, as the case requires; and
(c)
if paragraph (b) applies, and the changes are required changes, the time by which the permit holder or licence holder must comply with the changes referred to in paragraph (b).
Subpart 3—Post-decommissioning obligations
89ZL Application of this subpart
(1)
This subpart applies to—
(a)
each permit holder:
(b)
each licence holder:
(c)
any other person who is, or will be, or was, obliged under subpart 2 to carry out and meet the costs of decommissioning.
(2)
This subpart applies only in relation to—
(a)
petroleum infrastructure that was decommissioned on or after commencement; or
(b)
any well that was plugged and abandoned on or after commencement.
89ZM Relationship between this subpart and other enactments and permit or licence conditions
(1)
This subpart does not limit or affect any person’s obligations under another enactment or under the conditions of a current permit or licence.
(2)
Any requirement under this subpart for a person to supply information does not replace or limit any requirement for that person to supply information under any other provision of this Act or another enactment.
89ZN Interpretation
In this subpart, unless the context otherwise requires,—
commencement, in relation to any provision in this subpart, means the day on which that provision commences
current licence holder has the same meaning as in section 89D
current permit holder has the same meaning as in section 89D
licence has the same meaning as in section 89D
permit has the same meaning as in section 89D
petroleum infrastructure has the meaning set out in section 89F
post-decommissioning work means—
(a)
monitoring decommissioned petroleum infrastructure and wells in order to determine if activities need to be undertaken under paragraph (b):
(b)
activities carried out in relation to the remediation of—
(i)
petroleum infrastructure that has been decommissioned but not removed:
(ii)
a well that has been plugged and abandoned:
(iii)
environmental damage or health and safety risks caused by a failure of the decommissioning of petroleum infrastructure or a well referred to in subparagraph (i) or (ii)
well has the meaning set out in section 89D.
89ZO Post-decommissioning obligations
(1)
Any person who is obliged under subpart 2section 89K(1), 89L(1), 89R(1), or 89S(1) to carry out and meet the costs of decommissioning must, at the direction of the Minister,—
(a)
pay the chief executive an amount to meet the cost of any post-decommissioning work required on petroleum infrastructure and 1 or more wells that have been decommissioned; or
(a)
pay the chief executive an amount in accordance with the prescribed criteria (if any), to meet the costs of any post-decommissioning work required on petroleum infrastructure or, as the case requires, 1 or more wells that have been decommissioned:
(b)
obtain and maintain a financial security, of a kind and in an amount determined by the Minister in accordance with the prescribed requirements, being a security of a kind and in an amount designed to meet the cost or a proportion of the cost approved by the Minister of post-decommissioning work on petroleum infrastructure or 1 or more wells for which the permit or licence holder was responsible for carrying out and meeting the costs of decommissioning.
(2)
Any financial security referred to in this section is obtained or maintained on behalf of the Crown.
89ZP Matters for Minister to consider
In deciding under section 89ZO whether to require a permit holder or licence holder to pay an amount or obtain and maintain a financial security, the Minister may take into account must take into account the prescribed criteria (if any), any information supplied by the permit holder or licence holder, and any proposal by that person to obtain and maintain a particular kind of security in an amount nominated by that person.
89ZQ When payment is due or financial security must be obtained Details of payment or financial security
(1)
The Minister must direct that a payment by a person to whom section 89ZO(a) 89ZO(1)(a) applies—
(a)
be made in 1 lump sum to the chief executive by a prescribed time; or
(b)
be made in 2 or more instalments on prescribed dates or at prescribed intervals.
(2)
In deciding whether to give a direction under subsection (1)(a) or (b), the Minister must take into account—
(a)
the prescribed criteria (if any):
(b)
the most recent report (if any) available on the person’s financial capability.
(2A)
The Minister must direct that a person to whom section 89ZO(b)89ZO(1)(b) applies obtain and maintain a financial security—
(a)
in an amount and of a kind specified by the Minister; and
(b)
on conditions related to the financial security or the manner in which it is held that the Minister considers appropriate; and
(c)
by a date specified by the Minister.
(3)
The Minister must give written notice of the matters in subsection (1) to the person or persons from whom payment is due.
89ZR Other duties of chief executive
(1)
The chief executive must ensure that—
(a)
money received under section 89ZO(a) is paid into 1 or more accounts in accordance with section 104 and is managed in accordance with the requirements (if any) in the regulations:
(b)
money received or made available for use under section 89ZO is used only to undertake, or reimburse the cost of, post-decommissioning work.
(2)
Any money referred to in subsection (1) may be invested by the chief executive, with the prior approval of the Minister.
(3)
The chief executive may refund all or any part of any money referred to in subsection (1), in any circumstances where a refund is authorised by the regulations.
(4)
For the purposes of carrying out their duties under this subpart, the chief executive may—
(a)
take account of any information supplied under sections 89ZA and 89ZC:
(b)
require a permit holder or licence holder by written notice to supply any specified information.
(5)
The permit holder or licence holder must provide the information—
(a)
in the form and in the manner set out in the notice; and
(b)
within any reasonable time specified in the notice requiring the information.
(6)
To avoid doubt, information gathered under this section is subject to section 90A (disclosure of information).
89ZS Other duties of Minister
(1)
The Minister may, in accordance with the prescribed requirements (if any), direct that money received under section 89ZO be given to a specified person within a prescribed class of persons or organisations for use in relation to a specified project (being a project for which expenditure or reimbursement is authorised under section 89ZR(1)(b)).
(2)
For the purposes of carrying out their duties under this subpart, the Minister may—
(a)
take into account any information supplied under sections 42A, 42B, 42C, and sections 89ZAAA to 89ZC and 89ZP:
(b)
review the adequacy of the funds available for decommissioning work post-decommissioning work, periodically, in accordance with the prescribed requirements:
(c)
authorise the grant of refunds to persons who have made payments or made available money for use under section 89ZO, in accordance with the prescribed requirements:
(ca)
approve any specified person or class of person to apply for funds, in the prescribed manner and in accordance with the prescribed criteria (if any), to use in post-decommissioning work:
(d)
require a permit holder or licence holder by written notice to supply any specified information.
(3)
The permit holder or licence holder must provide the information—
(a)
in the form and in the manner set out in the notice; and
(b)
within any reasonable time specified in the notice requiring the information.
(4)
To avoid doubt, information gathered under this section is subject to section 90A (disclosure of information).
Exemptions
89ZT Exemption powers of Minister
(1)
The Minister may, if they consider it appropriate and if satisfied that the criteria in section 89ZU(1)(a) or (b) are satisfied, exempt a permit holder or a licence holder from the obligation to pay all or part of any amount the person would otherwise be required to pay under section 89ZO(a)89ZO(1)(a) or from the obligation to obtain and maintain a financial security under section 89ZO(b)89ZO(1)(b).
(2)
The Minister—
(a)
may grant an exemption on any terms and conditions that the Minister considers appropriate:
(b)
may amend or revoke an exemption:
(c)
may grant an exemption for an indefinite or a limited period:
(d)
may replace an exemption either before or when it expires:
(e)
must provide a summary of reasons for a decision under paragraphs (a) to (d) and include that summary in the notice of exemption.
(3)
Class exemptions may be granted by regulations (see section 105).
89ZU Criteria for granting exemption
(1)
Before granting an exemption under section 89ZT(1), the Minister must be satisfied that—
(a)
the requirement is unreasonable or inappropriate in the particular case; or
(b)
events have occurred that make the requirement unnecessary or inappropriate in the particular case.
(2)
For the purposes of applying subsection (1)(a) and (b), the Minister must consider the prescribed criteria (if any).
Subpart 4—Enforcement, remedies, and appeals
89ZV Application of this subpart
This subpart applies in relation to any contravention or alleged contravention of this Act or the regulations.
89ZW Chief executive or enforcement officer may accept enforceable undertakings
(1)
The chief executive or an enforcement officer may accept an enforceable undertaking given by a person in writing in connection with a matter relating to a contravention or an alleged contravention by the person of this Act or the regulations.
(2)
The giving of an enforceable undertaking does not constitute an admission of guilt by the person giving it in relation to the contravention or alleged contravention to which the undertaking relates.
Compare: 2015 No 70 s 123
89ZX Notice of decision and reasons for decision
The chief executive or enforcement officer must give the person seeking to make an enforceable undertaking written notice of—
(a)
their decision to accept or reject the undertaking; and
(b)
the reasons for the decision.
Compare: 2015 No 70 s 124
89ZY When enforceable undertaking is enforceable
An enforceable undertaking takes effect and becomes enforceable when the chief executive’s or enforcement officer’s decision to accept the undertaking is given to the person who made the undertaking, or at any later date specified by the chief executive or enforcement officer.
Compare: 2015 No 70 s 125
89ZZ Compliance with enforceable undertaking
(1)
A person must not contravene an enforceable undertaking given by that person that is in force.
(2)
A person who contravenes subsection (1) commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $200,000.
Compare: 2015 No 70 s 126
89ZZA Contravention of enforceable undertaking
(1)
The chief executive or an enforcement officer may apply to the District Court for an order referred to in subsection (2) if a person contravenes an enforceable undertaking.
(2)
If the court is satisfied that the person who made the enforceable undertaking has contravened the undertaking, the court may make either or both of the following orders:
(a)
an order directing the person to comply with the undertaking:
(b)
an order discharging the undertaking.
(3)
In addition to the orders referred to in subsection (2), the court may make any other order that the court considers appropriate in the circumstances, including orders directing the person to pay the department that, with the authority of the Prime Minister, is responsible for the administration of this Act—
(a)
the costs of the proceedings; and
(b)
the reasonable costs of the chief executive or the enforcement officer in monitoring compliance with the enforceable undertaking in the future.
(4)
This section does not prevent proceedings being brought for the contravention or alleged contravention of this Act or regulations to which the enforceable undertaking relates.
Compare: 2015 No 70 s 127
89ZZB Withdrawal or variation of enforceable undertaking
(1)
A person who has given an enforceable undertaking may at any time, with the written agreement of the chief executive,—
(a)
withdraw the undertaking; or
(b)
vary the undertaking.
(2)
However, the provisions of the undertaking cannot be varied to provide for a different alleged contravention of this Act or regulations.
Compare: 2015 No 70 s 128
89ZZC Proceedings for alleged contravention
(1)
Subject to this section, no proceedings (whether civil or criminal) for a contravention or an alleged contravention of this Act or regulations may be brought against a person if an enforceable undertaking is in effect in relation to that contravention.
(2)
No proceedings may be brought for a contravention or an alleged contravention of this Act or regulations against a person who—
(a)
has made an enforceable undertaking in relation to that contravention; and
(b)
has completely discharged the enforceable undertaking.
(3)
The chief executive or an enforcement officer may accept an enforceable undertaking in relation to a contravention or an alleged contravention before proceedings in relation to that contravention have been completed.
(4)
If the chief executive or an enforcement officer accepts an enforceable undertaking before the proceedings are completed, the chief executive or an enforcement officer must take all reasonable steps to have the proceedings discontinued as soon as practicable.
Compare: 2015 No 70 s 129
Compliance notices
89ZZD Power to issue compliance notices
(1)
This section applies if the chief executive or an enforcement officer reasonably believes that a person—
(a)
is contravening a provision of this Act or the regulations; or
(b)
is likely to contravene a provision of this Act or the regulations.
(2)
The chief executive or enforcement officer may issue a compliance notice requiring the person to—
(a)
remedy the contravention; or
(b)
prevent a likely contravention from occurring; or
(c)
remedy the things or activities causing the contravention or likely to cause a contravention.
(3)
The chief executive or enforcement officer may issue a compliance notice only, if in the opinion of the chief executive or enforcement officer,—
(a)
the contravention or likely contravention is or would be sufficiently serious to justify the issue of a compliance notice; or
(b)
there has been a repeated contravention or a repetition of behaviour that is likely to lead to a contravention occurring; or
(c)
the contravention or behaviour likely to lead to a contravention has been committed intentionally or recklessly or involves negligence on the person’s part.
(4)
However, each of the criteria specified in subsection (3)(a) to (c) may be considered on the basis of the information readily available to the chief executive or enforcement officer and the chief executive or enforcement officer need not make further enquiries before applying those criteria.
Compare: 2015 No 70 s 101
89ZZE Content of compliance notices
(1)
A compliance notice must state—
(a)
that the chief executive or an enforcement officer believes, on reasonable grounds, that the person—
(i)
is contravening a provision of this Act or the regulations; or
(ii)
is likely to contravene a provision of this Act or the regulations; and
(b)
the provision the chief executive or enforcement officer believes, on reasonable grounds, is being, or is likely to be, contravened; and
(c)
briefly, how the provision is being, or is likely to be, contravened; and
(d)
a period within which the person is required to remedy—
(i)
the contravention or likely contravention; or
(ii)
the things or activities causing the contravention or likely to cause a contravention.
(2)
A compliance notice may include recommendations concerning—
(a)
the measures that could be taken to remedy the contravention, or prevent the likely contravention, to which the notice relates:
(b)
the things or activities causing the contravention, or likely to cause a contravention, to which the notice relates.
Compare: 2015 No 70 s 102
89ZZF Compliance with compliance notice
(1)
A person who has been issued with a compliance notice must comply with the notice within the period specified in the notice.
(2)
A person who contravenes subsection (1) commits an offence and is liable, on conviction, to a fine not exceeding $200,000.
(3)
However, in a prosecution for an offence against subsection (2) the defendant has a defence if they prove that they had a reasonable excuse for failing to comply with the compliance notice within the required period.
(4)
It is not an offence to fail to comply with recommendations in a compliance notice.
Compare: 2015 No 70 s 103
89ZZG Extension of time for compliance with compliance notices
(1)
This section applies if a person has been issued with a compliance notice.
(2)
The chief executive or enforcement officer may, on their own initiative or on the application of the person, by written notice given to the person, extend the compliance period for the compliance notice.
(3)
However, the chief executive or enforcement officer may extend the compliance period only if the period has not ended.
(3A)
If a person applies for an extension of time for complying with a compliance notice not less than 2 weeks before the time for compliance expires but a decision has not been made on the application before the time for compliance expires, the period for compliance is deemed to be extended for a period of 2 weeks, to enable a decision on extension to be made within that period.
(4)
In this section, compliance period—
(a)
means the period stated in the compliance notice under section 89ZZE(1); and
(b)
includes any extension of that period under this section.
Compare: 2015 No 70 s 104
General provisions
89ZZH General provisions relating to compliance notices
(1)
A compliance notice must be in writing.
(2)
A compliance notice may be addressed to any person under the person’s legal name or usual business name.
Compare: 2015 No 70 s 112
89ZZI Changes to notice by chief executive or enforcement officer
The chief executive or an enforcement officer (as the case may be) may make minor changes to a compliance notice—
(a)
for clarification; or
(b)
to correct errors or references; or
(c)
to reflect changes of address or other circumstances.
Compare: 2015 No 70 s 113
89ZZJ Chief executive or enforcement officer may vary or cancel compliance notice
Except as provided in section 89ZZI, a compliance notice issued by the chief executive or an enforcement officer may be varied or cancelled only by the chief executive or the enforcement officer.
Compare: 2015 No 70 s 114
89ZZK Formal irregularities or defects in compliance notice
A compliance notice is not invalid merely because of—
(a)
any defect, irregularity, omission, or want of form in the compliance notice unless the defect, irregularity, omission, or want of form causes or is likely to cause a miscarriage of justice; or
(b)
a failure to use the correct name of the person to whom the compliance notice is issued if the notice sufficiently identifies the person and is issued to the person in accordance with section 89ZZL.
Compare: 2015 No 70 s 115
89ZZL Issue of compliance notice
(1)
A compliance notice may be issued to a person by—
(a)
delivering it to the person or, if the person refuses to accept it, bringing it to the person’s notice; or
(b)
leaving it for the person at the person’s last known place of residence with another person who appears to be of or over the age of 16 years; or
(c)
leaving it for the person at the person’s place of business or work with another person; or
(d)
sending it to the person by prepaid post addressed to the person’s last known place of residence or place of business or work; or
(e)
sending it to an electronic address of the person in any case where the person does not have a known place of residence or business in New Zealand.
(2)
Regulations may prescribe the steps a person to whom a compliance notice is issued must take to bring it to the attention of other persons.
(3)
A compliance notice—
(a)
posted under subsection (1)(d) is to be treated as having been received by the person on the fifth working day after the day on which it was posted:
(b)
delivered electronically under subsection (1)(e) is to be treated as having been received at the time the electronic communication first entered an information system that is outside the control of the chief executive or an enforcement officer.
Compare: 2015 No 70 s 116
Civil proceedings for non-compliance with compliance notices
89ZZM Civil proceedings relating to non-compliance with compliance notice
(1)
On an application by the chief executive or an enforcement officer, the District Court may make an order—
(a)
compelling a person to comply with a compliance notice; or
(b)
restraining a person from contravening a compliance notice.
(2)
The court may make an order—
(a)
under subsection (1)(a), if it is satisfied that the person has refused or failed to comply with a compliance notice:
(b)
under subsection (1)(b), if it is satisfied that the person has contravened, is contravening, or is likely to contravene a compliance notice.
(3)
The courts may make an order under subsection (2) whether or not proceedings have been brought for an offence against this Act or regulations in connection with any matter in relation to which the compliance notice was issued.
Compare: 2015 No 70 s 122
Pecuniary penalties
89ZZN Reasonable mistake defence in pecuniary penalty proceedings
(1)
Every person has a defence to proceedings for pecuniary penalties under section 89ZZO, in connection with a breach of this Act, if the person proves that—
(a)
the breach was due to a reasonable mistake or due to events outside of the person’s control; and
(b)
the breach was remedied (to the extent that it could be remedied) as soon as practicable after the breach was discovered by the person or brought to the person’s notice; and
(c)
the person has compensated or offered to compensate any person who has suffered loss or damage by that breach.
(2)
For the avoidance of doubt, a mistake does not include a mistake of law or a mistake in the interpretation of any enactment or of any document.
89ZZO Pecuniary penalties
(1)
A court of competent jurisdiction may, on the application of the chief executive, order a person to pay to the Crown the pecuniary penalty that the court determines to be appropriate if the court is satisfied that the person—
(a)
has contravened any of the following provisions:
(i)
sections 89K and 89L (which require the decommissioning of petroleum infrastructure):
(ii)
sections 89R and 89S (which require the plugging and abandoning of wells):
(iii)
section 89ZE (which requires the establishment and maintenance of an adequate financial security):
(iv)
section 89ZO (which requires the making of post-decommissioning payments or the taking out of a financial security):
(b)
has attempted to contravene such a provision; or
(c)
has aided, abetted, counselled, or procured any other person to contravene such a provision; or
(d)
has induced, or attempted to induce, any other person, whether by threats or promises or otherwise, to contravene such a provision; or
(e)
has been in any way, directly or indirectly, knowingly concerned in, or party to, the contravention by any other person of such a provision; or
(f)
has conspired with any other person to contravene such a provision.
(2)
In determining an appropriate penalty under this section, the court must have regard to all relevant matters, in particular,—
(a)
the nature and extent of the contravention; and
(b)
the nature and extent of any loss or damage suffered by any person because of the contravention; and
(c)
any gains made or losses avoided by the person in contravention; and
(d)
the circumstances in which the contravention took place (including whether the contravention was intentional, inadvertent, or caused by negligence).
(3)
The amount of any pecuniary penalty must not, in respect of each act or omission, exceed,—
(a)
in the case of an individual, $500,000; or
(b)
in the case of a body corporate, the greater of—
(i)
$10,000,000 (or, in the case of a contravention referred to in subsection (1)(a)(iv), $5,000,000); or
(ii)
either—
(A)
if it can readily be ascertained and if the court is satisfied that the contravention resulted in a cost to the Crown or another person to remedy the effects of the contravention, 3 times the commercial gain; or
(B)
if the commercial gain cannot be readily ascertained, 10% of the turnover of the person and all its interconnected bodies corporate (if any) in each accounting period during which the contravention occurred.
(4)
Proceedings under this section may be commenced within 3 years after the matter giving rise to the contravention was discovered or ought reasonably to have been discovered.
(5)
Where conduct by any person constitutes a contravention of 2 or more provisions referred to in subsection (1)(a), proceedings may be instituted under this Act against that person in relation to the contravention of any 1 or more of the provisions; but no person is liable to more than 1 pecuniary penalty under this section in respect of the same conduct.
Compare: 2003 No 52 s 107A
89ZZP Proceedings for pecuniary penalties
In any proceedings under this subpart for a pecuniary penalty,—
(a)
the standard of proof is the standard of proof that applies in civil proceedings; and
(b)
the chief executive may, by order of the court, obtain discovery and administer interrogatories.
Compare: 2003 No 52 s 107B
Criminal liability for knowingly failing to carry out certain obligations
89ZZQ Criminal liability for knowingly failing to carry out certain obligations
(1)
This section applies to a person (A) if A is liable for 1 or more of the following (A’s decommissioning obligations):
(a)
carrying out or meeting the costs (or both) of decommissioning petroleum infrastructure under section 89K or 89L by the time A is required to do so under section 89O:
(b)
carrying out or meeting the costs (or both) of plugging and abandoning wells under section 89R or 89S by the time A is required to do so under section 89V.
(2)
A commits an offence if they do an act, fail to act, or engage in a course of conduct knowing that the act, failure to act, or course of conduct will result in A not being able to meet A’s decommissioning obligations.
(3)
If A is a current permit or licence holder that is a body corporate, and a permit holder or licence holder that is a body corporate who, during the period while they are a current permit or licence holder commits an offence under subsection (2), any person who is a director of A when A commits the offence also commits an offence.
(3A)
If A is a body corporate who commits an offence under subsection (2) in relation to decommissioning obligations under section 89O(2) or 89V(2) (which impose decommissioning obligations when a permit or licence is revoked), any person who is a director of A when A commits the offence also commits an offence).
(4)
A person who commits an offence under this section is liable on conviction,—
(a)
in the case of an individual, to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 2 years, or a fine not exceeding $1 million, or both; and
(b)
in any other case, the greater of the following:
(i)
a fine not exceeding $10 million:
(ii)
a fine not exceeding 3 times the cost of decommissioning.
(5)
Proceedings under this section may be commenced within 3 years after the matter giving rise to the offence was discovered or ought reasonably to have been discovered.
89ZZR Defence to criminal liability for directors
(1)
In any proceeding against a director under section 89ZZQ(3), it is a defence if the director proves that—
(a)
A took all reasonable steps to ensure A would meet A’s decommissioning obligations; or
(b)
the director took all reasonable steps to ensure that A would meet A’s decommissioning obligations; or
(c)
in the circumstances, the director could not reasonably have been expected to take steps to ensure that A would meet A’s decommissioning obligations.
(2)
In this section,—
A has the meaning set out in section 89ZZQ
A’s decommissioning obligations has the meaning set out in section 89ZZQ.
Relationship between pecuniary penalties and criminal liability
89ZZS Relationship between pecuniary penalties and criminal liability
(1)
A criminal proceeding for an offence may be commenced against a person in relation to particular conduct whether or not a proceeding for a pecuniary penalty has been commenced against the person in relation to the same conduct.
(2)
A proceeding for a pecuniary penalty against a person in relation to particular conduct is stayed if a criminal proceeding against the person has been commenced for an offence in relation to the same conduct for that conduct results in a conviction.
Restrictions on indemnities and insurance
89ZZT Restriction on indemnities
(1)
A body corporate must not indemnify any director, employee, or agent, or former director, employee, or agent, of the body corporate or of any related body corporate (person C) in respect of—
(a)
any pecuniary penalty imposed on person C under this Act; or
(b)
any costs incurred by person C in defending any civil proceedings in which the pecuniary penalty referred to in paragraph (a) is imposed.
(2)
An indemnity given in contravention of subsection (1) is void.
(3)
In this section and section 89ZZU, indemnify includes relieve or excuse from liability, whether before or after the liability arises, and indemnity has a corresponding meaning.
Compare: 2003 No 52 s 107D
89ZZU Restriction on insurance
No person may enter into a contract of insurance that indemnifies or purports to indemnify a person (person C) in respect of—
(a)
any pecuniary penalty imposed on person C under this Act; or
(b)
any costs incurred by person C in defending any civil proceedings in which the pecuniary penalty referred to in paragraph (a) is imposed.
Compare: 2003 No 52 s 107E
Subpart 5—Crown liability
89ZZV Effects of subparts 2 and 3 on Crown liability
(1)
Subparts 2 and 3 of this Part (which deal with decommissioning and post-decommissioning obligations) do not require the Crown to undertake or pay for the decommissioning of petroleum infrastructure or wells or post-decommissioning work.
(2)
Subsection (1) does not extinguish or otherwise affect any liability the Crown may have under any other enactment, rule of law, or agreement.
18 New subpart 6 heading in Part 1B inserted
Before the cross-heading above section 90, insert:
Subpart 6—Offences and miscellaneous
19 Section 90 amended (Permit holder records and reports)
(1)
In section 90(1), replace “in respect of all prospecting, exploration, and mining activities”
with “in respect of all prospecting, exploration, mining, decommissioning activities and post-decommissioning activities”
.
(2)
After section 90(1), insert:
(1A)
Without limiting the generality of subsection (1), the records and reports required to be kept include—
(a)
financial records, including any financial records required to be kept and retained under the Tax Administration Act 1994:
(b)
commercial records, including any feasibility studies:
(c)
scientific and technical records:
(d)
any calculations made in support of the above records:
(e)
records, reports, statements, or any other documentation or information required under other legislation, if regulations made under this Act prescribe that they must be retained for the purposes of this Act:
(f)
any other records or reports prescribed by regulations.
(3)
After section 90(8), insert:
(8A)
The chief executive may, but is not required to, publish on an Internet site maintained by the chief executive or in any other way the chief executive considers appropriate all or any of the information supplied under this section, at any time after the information is required to be made available under any of subsections (6) to (8).
(3A)
In section 90(10), replace “subsection (9)”
with “subsection (8A) or (9)”
.
(4)
Replace section 90(11) with:
(11)
Nothing in this section requires the chief executive to send or make available send, make available, publish, or otherwise disclose any records, reports, information, or returns—
(a)
gathered under subsection (1A)(a), including information gathered under sections 42B, 42C, 89ZA, 89ZC, 89ZAAA, 89ZAAB, 89ZAAC, 89ZAAD, 89ZE, 89ZF, 89ZR, and 89ZS:
(b)
relating to the calculation and payment of royalties by permit holders.
20 Section 90A amended (Disclosure of information)
(1)
In section 90A(1), after “42A”, insert “42A, 42B, 42C”.
(2)
In section 90A(1), after “61C,”, insert “89ZA, 89ZC, 89ZD, 89ZE, 89ZF, 89ZR, 89ZS,”.
(1)
In section 90A(1), replace “42A”
with “42B, 42C”
.
(2)
In section 90A(1), after “61C”
, insert “89ZAAB, 89ZAAC, 89ZAAD, 89ZA, 89ZE, 89ZF, 89ZR, 89ZS, 89ZZA”
.
(3)
In section 90A(1), after paragraph (e), insert:
(ea)
disclosure is authorised under section 90(8A); or
20A Section 97 amended (Application of monetary deposits)
(1)
In section 97(3), replace “subsection (2)”
with “subsections (2) and (5)”
.
(2)
In section 97(4), replace “On the termination”
with “Subject to subsection (5), on the termination”
.
(3)
After section 97(4), insert:
(5)
In the case of any money monetary deposit or bond held by the chief executive under a financial security required under section 89ZE, the provisions of subsections (3) and (4) apply subject to the following modifications:
(a)
the funds held by the chief executive must not be refunded until any required decommissioning is completed released until any required decommissioning is completed, unless they are released under section 89ZG(4B):
(b)
any interest to be paid to the permit holder must be repaid in 1 lump sum at the time when the principal sum deposited by the permit holder under section 89ZE is refunded.
21 Section 99C amended (Application for warrant for entry to search)
In section 99C(1), replace “place or vehicle”
with “place, structure, vehicle, or ship”
in each place.
22 Section 100 amended (Offences)
(1)
After section 100(2)(d), insert:
(e)
section 99F, which relates to providing certain information to the Minister, the chief executive, or an enforcement officer:
(2)
After section 100(4), insert:
(5)
If an enforceable undertaking has been given, criminal proceedings may be taken for an offence within 6 months after—
(a)
the enforceable undertaking is contravened; or
(b)
it comes to the notice of the regulator that the enforceable undertaking has been contravened; or
(c)
the chief executive agreed to the withdrawal of the enforceable undertaking.
23 Section 101A amended (Interpretation)
In section 101A, repeal the definition of ship.
24 New sections 104A to 104K inserted
After section 104, insert:
104A Interpretation
In this Act,—
infringement fee, in relation to an infringement offence, means the infringement fee for the offence prescribed in the regulations
infringement offence means an offence against in the regulations that is prescribed as an infringement offence against the regulations.
104B Infringement offences
(1)
A person who is alleged to have committed an infringement offence may—
(a)
be proceeded against by the filing of a charging document under section 14 of the Criminal Procedure Act 2011; or
(b)
be issued with an infringement notice under section 104D.
(2)
Proceedings commenced in the way described in subsection (1)(a) do not require the leave of a District Court Judge or Registrar under section 21(1)(a) of the Summary Proceedings Act 1957.
(3)
See section 21 of the Summary Proceedings Act 1957 for the procedure that applies if an infringement notice is issued.
104C Who may issue infringement notices
The chief executive may, in writing, authorise an enforcement officer to issue infringement notices under this Act.
104D When infringement notice may be issued
The chief executive or an enforcement officer may issue an infringement notice to a person if the chief executive or enforcement officer believes on reasonable grounds that the person is committing, or has committed, an infringement offence.
104E Revocation of infringement notice before payment made
(1)
The chief executive or an enforcement officer may revoke an infringement notice before—
(a)
the infringement fee is paid; or
(b)
an order for payment of a fine is made or deemed to be made by a court under section 21 of the Summary Proceedings Act 1957.
(2)
The chief executive or enforcement officer must take reasonable steps to ensure that the person to whom the notice was issued is made aware of the revocation of the notice.
(3)
The revocation of an infringement notice before the infringement fee is paid is not a bar to any further action as described in section 104B(1)(a) or (b) against the person to whom the notice was issued in respect of the same matter.
104F What infringement notice must contain
An infringement notice must be in the form prescribed in the regulations and must contain the following particulars:
(a)
details of the alleged infringement offence that fairly inform a person of the time, place, and nature of the alleged offence:
(b)
the amount of the infringement fee:
(c)
the address of the [place where the infringement notice must may be paid]:
(d)
how the infringement fee may be paid:
(e)
the time within which the infringement fee must be paid:
(f)
a summary of the provisions of section 21(10) of the Summary Proceedings Act 1957:
(g)
a statement that the person served with the notice has a right to request a hearing:
(h)
a statement of what will happen if the person served with the notice neither pays the infringement fee nor requests a hearing:
(i)
any other matters prescribed in the regulations.
104G How infringement notice may be issued to person
(1)
An infringement notice may be issued to a person who the chief executive or enforcement officer believes is committing or has committed the infringement offence by—
(a)
delivering it to the person or, if the person refuses to accept it, bringing it to the person’s notice; or
(b)
leaving it for the person at the person’s last known place of residence with another person who appears to be of or over the age of 16 years; or
(c)
leaving it for the person at the person’s place of business or work with another person; or
(d)
sending it to the person by prepaid post addressed to the person’s last known place of residence or place of business or work; or
(e)
sending it to an electronic address of the person in any case where the person does not have a known place of residence or business in New Zealand.
(2)
Unless the contrary is shown,—
(a)
an infringement notice (or a copy of it) sent by prepaid post to a person under subsection (1) is to be treated as having been served on that person on the fifth working day after the date on which it was posted; and
(b)
an infringement notice sent to a valid electronic address is to be treated as having been served at the time the electronic communication first entered an information system that is outside the control of the chief executive or enforcement officer.
104H Payment of infringement fees
All infringement fees paid for infringement offences must be paid into a Crown Bank Account.
104I Reminder notices
A reminder notice must be in the form prescribed in the regulations and must include the same particulars, or substantially the same particulars, as the infringement notice.
104J Regulations
Regulations may be made under section 105—
(a)
prescribing infringement offences by—
(i)
prescribing a duty, restriction, or prohibition for conduct that is similar to conduct, or similar to an element of conduct, for which there is a duty, restriction, or prohibition under any provision of this Act or regulations; and
(ii)
providing that a contravention of the duty, restriction, or prohibition is an infringement offence:
(b)
prescribing for those infringement offences—
(i)
fines not exceeding—
(A)
$2,000 for an individual:
(B)
$6,000 in any other case:
(ii)
infringement fees not exceeding—
(A)
$1,000 for an individual:
(B)
$3,000 in any other case.
104K Relationship between infringement offences and other offences
A person may be prosecuted or convicted of any offence referred to in the Act (rather than proceeding under sections 104A to 104I), even if their conduct is, or may be, an infringement offence.
25 Section 105 amended (Regulations)
(1)
In section 105(1)(a), after “the manner in which such documentation or information is to be provided”
, insert “(including electronically)”
.
(2)
After section 105(1)(g), insert:
(gaaa)
prescribing the records, statements, or any other documentation or information required under other legislation that must be retained for the purposes of this Act:
(gaaaa)
prescribing matters for the purposes of section 42B (field development plans), section 42C (notice of expected cessation and nature of cessation), and section 89ZAAC (asset registers):
(gaab)
prescribing requirements in relation to the subpart 2 decommissioning plan submitted under section 89ZAAA:
(gaac)
prescribing matters for the purposes of sections 89ZAAB (decommissioning cost estimate), 89ZAAD (decommissioning completion report), and 89ZA (provision of information needed to monitor financial position):
(gab)
prescribing the standard or requirements that a decommissioning cost estimate submitted under section 89ZAAB must meet:
(3)
After section 105(1)(q), insert:
(qa)
regulating the decommissioning of petroleum installations petroleum infrastructure and the plugging and abandonment of wells:
(qb)
exempting specified classes of permit holders or licence holders from the obligation to decommission specified classes of petroleum infrastructure, or to plug and abandon specified classes of wells, or both, or deferring any or all of those obligations:
(qc)
declaring petroleum infrastructure and classes or items of petroleum infrastructure to be or not to be, as the case requires, relevant older petroleum infrastructure:
(qd)
declaring an individual well or class of wells to be, or not to be, as the case requires, to be a relevant older well or relevant older wells:
(qe)
requiring permit holders and licence holders to notify the chief executive of the likely date in which production will cease at any well, or in any field, at specified times:
(qf)
regulating the making of payments for post-decommissioning work, the establishment and operation of accounts into which those payments are deposited, and the use of, and accounting for, funds in those accounts:
(qg)
exempting specified classes of permit holders or licence holders from the obligation to make post-decommissioning payments under section 89ZO (either in whole or in part):
(qh)
prescribing requirements in relation to the ongoing monitoring of a permit or licence holder’s financial position and assessing their financial capability under sections 89ZA to 89ZC:
(qi)
regulating the setting, obtaining and maintaining of financial securities that permit holders and licence holders may be required to obtain and maintain, which may include, without limitation,—
(i)
setting criteria that the Minister must consider under section 89ZF(1)(b) when deciding the kinds and amounts of financial security to be required:
(ii)
specifying matters to be considered by the Minister when determining the amounts that are required to be secured (including 1 or more formulas or other methods of calculating those amounts):
(iii)
prescribing circumstances in which certain kinds of securities will or will not be permitted:
(iv)
requiring certain kinds of financial securities to be held in specified situations:
(v)
setting a hierarchy of preferred financial securities, which may differ in different circumstances:
(vi)
specifying how certain financial securities must be held:
(vii)
setting time frames for the obtaining and maintaining of all or part of a required security:
(xi)
prescribing the manner in which information is to be supplied for the purposes of section 89ZE(2):
(xii)
enabling the Minister to determine any other specified matter in connection with financial securities:
(qj)
specifying the maximum amount or a scale of maximum amounts, to be secured by financial securities that permit holders and licence holders may be required to obtain and maintain:
(qk)
regulating the setting and use of post-decommissioning payments, including, without limitation,—
(i)
specifying criteria for calculating the amount of post-decommissioning payments that permit holders and licence holders are required to make:
(ii)
setting time frames for making payments in 1 lump sum or by instalments:
(iii)
setting criteria to be applied in determining whether post-decommissioning payments are to be made in a lump sum or by instalments:
(iv)
setting criteria to be applied in determining whether to grant exemptions from post-decommissioning payments:
(v)
providing for refunds of all or part of a post-decommissioning payment in specified circumstances:
(vi)
setting restrictions on the use of post-decommissioning payments or post-decommissioning payments of a specified class:
(ql)
regulating the setting, obtaining and maintaining of financial securities that persons with post-decommissioning obligations under section 89ZO or 89ZP may be required to obtain and maintain:
(qm)
prescribing matters for the purposes of section 89ZZL.
(4)
After section 105(3), insert:
(3A)
Regulations made under this section may apply in relation to licences, licence holders, and holders of a participating interest in a licence, or any class of licence or those persons, in so far as the regulations relate to subparts 2 and 3 of Part 1B or any other provision of this Act specified in the regulations.
(3B)
Regulations made under subsection (1)(qb) or (1)(qc)subsection (1)(qb), (qc), or (qd) (which relates to class exemptions) may only provide for exemptions—
(a)
that the Minister is satisfied are exemptions from requirements that are unreasonable or inappropriate for the exempted class of persons to comply with; or
(b)
if the Minister is satisfied that events have occurred that make the requirements unnecessary or inappropriate for the exempted class of persons to comply with.
26 Schedule 1 amended
In Schedule 1,—
(a)
insert the Part set out in Schedule 1 of this Act as the last Part; and
(b)
make all necessary consequential amendments.
27 Enactments consequentially amended
Amend the enactments specified in Schedule 2 in the manner set out in that schedule.
Schedule 1 New Part 4 inserted into Schedule 1
s 22
Part 4 Provisions relating to Crown Minerals (Decommissioning and Other Matters) Amendment Act 2021
32 Consequential amendments to minerals programmes
Nothing in section 17 or 18 of this Act applies to any change to a minerals programme if the change that is made is consequential to the amendments made to this Act by the Crown Minerals (Decommissioning and Other Matters) Amendment Act 2021 (including any change to remove inconsistencies between the minerals programme and this Act as amended).
33 Specific proceedings unaffected
To avoid doubt,—
(a)
the decision of the High Court in the proceedings between Greymouth Gas Turangi Limited and the Minister of Energy and Resources (CIV-2018-485-237) is binding on the parties for the purposes of the matters at issue in those proceedings; and
(b)
the Act, as it was in force on 6 March 2018, continues to apply for the purposes of giving effect to that decision, notwithstanding the commencement of the Crown Minerals (Decommissioning and Other Matters) Amendment Act 2021 (other than this clause).
34 Existing applications determined in accordance with Act as amended
(1)
Any application that was lodged or submitted, but not determined, before the day after the date on which the Crown Minerals (Decommissioning and Other Matters) Amendment Act 2021 (the Amendment Act) received the Royal assent must be determined in accordance with this Act as in force on the day after the date on which the Amendment Act received the Royal assent.
(2)
Subclause (1) applies despite anything to the contrary in this Act.
(3)
In this clause, application means—
(a)
an application under section 23A (application for permits); and
(b)
an application under section 24 (allocation by public tender); and
(c)
an application under section 41 (transfer of interest in permit); and
(d)
an application under section 41AB (change of control of permit operator of Tier 1 permit); and
(e)
an application under section 41C (change of permit operator).
35 Section 13 of Petroleum Act 1937 amended (Term of mining licence)
Section 13(3) of the Petroleum Act 1937 (as preserved by clause 12(1)(a) of Schedule 1) must be applied as if there were inserted the following paragraph:
(d)
may be extended under this paragraph (or also under any other relevant provision enabling the duration of a licence to be extended, for some purpose, in force at the applicable time) by the Minister for such period as the Minister considers reasonable, to enable the licensee to comply with their decommissioning obligations under subpart 2 of Part 1B of the Crown Minerals Act 1991.
35A Power of Minister to extend licence
If clause 35 does not apply but a current licence holder has or will have decommissioning obligations under subpart 2 of Part 1B of the Crown Minerals Act 1991, the Minister may extend the licence for such period as the Minister considers reasonable, to enable the licensee to comply with their decommissioning obligations under subpart 2 of Part 1B of the Crown Minerals Act 1991.
36 Section 34(1) to (3) of Petroleum Act 1937 ceases to have effect Section 34 of Petroleum Act 1937
(1)
Section 34(1) to (3) of the Petroleum Act 1937 ceases to have any effect (including for transitional purposes) on the day on which the Crown Minerals (Decommissioning and Other Matters) Amendment Act 2021 receives the Royal assent.
(2)
On and after commencement, no further consent may be given in reliance on section 37(4) of the Petroleum Act 1937.
Schedule 2 Consequential amendments
s 27
Search and Surveillance Act 2012 (2012 No 24)
In the Schedule, item relating to section 99C of the Crown Mineral Act 1991, replace “place or vehicle”
with “place, structure, vehicle, or ship”
.
Summary Proceedings Act 1957 (1957 No 87)
In section 2(1), definition of infringement notice, after paragraph (g), insert:
(ga)
section 104D of the Crown Minerals Act 1991:
Legislative history
23 June 2021 |
Introduction (Bill 47–1) |
|
6 July 2021 |
First reading and referral to Economic Development, Science and Innovation Committee |
|
19 August 2021 |
Reported from Economic Development, Science and Innovation Committee (Bill 47-2) |
|
16 November 2021 |
Second reading |
|
17 November 2021 |
Committee of the whole House (Bill 47-3) |
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Versions
Crown Minerals (Decommissioning and Other Matters) Amendment Bill
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