Eastern Australia 3D Geological and Hydrogeological Surfaces for 18 Aquifer Units

Eastern Australian basins contain updated 3D surfaces and thicknesses for 18 region-wide hydrogeological units. Geoscience Australia's National Groundwater Systems Project produced this second iteration, building on a 2022 model with new data. The report and data package were published in 2026.

Use Cases

• Model groundwater flow and aquifer connectivity using the 18 hydrogeological unit surfaces and thicknesses.
• Correlate stratigraphy across basin borders using the unified geological framework and time-equivalent unit subdivisions.
• Assess resource potential in Triassic to Permian basins using their provided distribution and thickness maps.
• Fill data gaps in regional studies by integrating legacy borehole data with new seismic and airborne electromagnetic (AEM) data compilations.
• Support sustainable groundwater management decisions for the Great Artesian Basin using updated surface extents.

Strengths

• Covers 18 region-wide hydrogeological units with updated surface extents and thicknesses.
• Integrates multiple data types including legacy boreholes, 2D seismic, and airborne electromagnetic (AEM) data.
• Study area spans from the Gulf of Carpentaria to the Bight, Otway, and Gippsland basins offshore.

Limitations

• Specific row counts, file sizes, and sample data are unavailable for review.
• Triassic to Permian and older basin data are provided without geological and hydrogeological unit subdivisions.
• The license terms for the data package are not specified.

Provenance

Source

Geoscience Australia's Exploring for the Future Program, National Groundwater Systems Project.

Collection Method

Constructed using compiled legacy borehole data, 2D seismic, AEM data, and new QC'd borehole data from petroleum, CSG, stratigraphic, mineral, and water sources.

Time Range

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Freshness

Updated to a second iteration in 2026, building upon a 2022 model.

Geography

Eastern Australian basins, extending from the offshore Gulf of Carpentaria north to the offshore Bight, Otway, and Gippsland basins south, and from the western edge of the Great Artesian Basin to the eastern coastline.