What is a general lease?

General leases are a particular type of leasehold that allows Crown land to be used for a particular purpose. These leases were formerly known as 'special leases' or 'special purpose leases'. For example, a general lease may be for the purpose of the use and benefit of the Aboriginal people. The leases are granted by DPI (for the Crown) under the Land Administration Act.

Sometimes a general lease will be a lease in perpetuity. That means that the lease has no expiry date. Leases in perpetuity can be granted only to Aboriginal people for advancing their interests.

General leases have conditions connected with the purpose.