The Northern Territory Gunner government is considering lifting a moratorium on seabed mining, to the alarm of local Indigenous leaders.
Northern Territory Environment Minister Eva Lawler says the eight year ban on seabed mining expires in March next year, and they felt it was time to consider the possibility again.
Concerned parties have until November 9 to give feedback to the Northern Territory government on the sand mining proposal.
However Chairman of the Groote Eylandt Anindilyakwa Land Council Tony Wurramarrba is appalled the government is considering mining in the sea.
Yolngu community leader Sylvia Nulpinditj, says the Indigenous community has not been properly consulted.
Tourism operators are also concerned about the environmental impact of dredgers excavating the seabed for minerals.
Cobourg Fishing Safaris head tour guide Dave McMahon says if seabed mining was allowed, the consequences would be felt for years to come.
The Northern Territory Environment Minister Eva Lawler says they will consult with the Environmental Protection Authority and with affected communities before proceeding with the proposal.
