Chamber of Minerals and Energy Chief Executive Officer Reg Howard-Smith said the higher levels of exploration drilling in the state are encouraging.
“Exploration is the lifeblood of future resource development,” Mr Howard-Smith said.
“Without ongoing investment in exploration activities many resources would remain undiscovered, stifling the growth and prosperity of the sector and the economy into the future, risking employment, investment and government revenue.
“In an internationally competitive environment, it is vital Government has the right policies in place to attract investment and promote economic development.
“Critical to achieving this aim is ensuring there are policies in place which advance exploration drilling through incentives or credits.”