19   Renewal of title

(1)  The holder of a petroleum title may apply for renewal of the title by application made within the time prescribed by subsection (2) or (2A).

(2)  The prescribed time in relation to a special prospecting authority or an exploration licence is not earlier than 2 months and not later than 1 month before the authority or licence ceases to have effect.

(2A)  The prescribed time in relation to a petroleum title other than a special prospecting authority or an exploration licence is not earlier than 5 years and not later than 1 year (or, if the term of the title is for 1 year or less, not earlier than 2 months and not later than 1 month) before the title ceases to have effect.

(2B)  After considering an application for renewal of a petroleum title, the Minister:

(a)  may renew the petroleum title, or

(b)  may refuse the application.

(3)  The Minister may refuse to grant a renewal of a title on any ground on which the Minister might have refused to grant the title originally or might have cancelled the title during its term.

(3A)  The Minister may also refuse to grant a renewal of title unless:

(a)  all data and reports due under the regulations have been submitted, and

(b)  all data gathered, and operations carried on, during any period not covered in any such report are made the subject of a full report submitted to the Minister.

(4)  A renewed title may, at the discretion of the Minister, be granted for a shorter term than that of the original title.

(5)  Any requirements, prohibitions and restrictions under this Act that relate to titles and applications for titles apply (except to the extent provided by this Act or the regulations) in the same way to renewals and applications for renewal.