Preliminary 3D Chronostratigraphic Model of Australia with 8 Geological Surfaces

Geoscience Australia's initial 3D geological model integrates depth data for time-equivalent units across eight major chronostratigraphic boundaries. The model is built on regional-scale data including approximately 1,900 km of deep seismic profiles and 60,000 line-km of airborne electromagnetic survey. This version 1.0 data package supports the Resourcing Australia's Prosperity initiative, a 35-year program starting in 2024.

Use Cases

• Multi-commodity resource potential mapping based on the 3D chronostratigraphic surfaces.
• Groundwater system analysis based on the integrated geological and geophysical knowledge.
• 3D visualization of stacked Paleo- to Cenozoic basins across Australia.
• Refining geological understanding for energy transition and climate resilience planning.

Strengths

• Integrates approximately 1,900 km of deep seismic reflection profiles.
• Includes 60,000 line-km of airborne electromagnetic survey data (AusAEM1).
• Covers eight major chronostratigraphic boundaries from Top Basement to Base Cenozoic.
• Built on work from two major programs: the 8-year, $225 million Exploring for the Future program and the 35-year Resourcing Australia's Prosperity initiative.

Limitations

• Column-level documentation is absent; field semantics must be inferred after download.
• Row count is unknown, which may limit suitability assessment.
• Description metadata is limited; actual data quality requires manual inspection after download.

Provenance

Source

Geoscience Australia Data

Collection Method

Integration of new regional-scale seismic, electromagnetic, and stratigraphic data with legacy borehole reviews, compiled into a consistent chronostratigraphic framework.

Time Range

Model covers geological time from Paleoproterozoic to Cenozoic.

Freshness

Last updated 2026-06-24 03:36:54.741373; freshness should be verified.

Geography

Australia