Prospectors for exploring Western Australia’s potential mining resources have received a financial boost from the state government.

The final round of funding for 2011 saw $6 million awarded to 52 applications, including three prospectors receiving $63000.

Promoting exploration in greenfields and under-explored areas of WA, the program is part of the government’s $80 million Exploration Incentive Scheme, funded by Royalties for Regions.

Mines and Petroleum Minister, Norman Moore said oil and gas projects were among the applications, with five petroleum projects receiving funding.

Mr Moore said programs supporting exploration by providing incentives to drill in under-explored areas were key to the continued economic prosperity for the state’s resources industry by helping find places to mine.

“Gold was the most predominant resource featured with 27 projects listing it as a main target or as one of other commodities sought,” Mr Moore said.

According to Mr Moore, gold was followed by copper in 11 projects, nickel in six and uranium in five.

He said other commodities being explored include platinum group elements, zinc, lead, diamonds and manganese.

“Round 4 is the first time a grant has been offered for drilling to be understaken over a calendar year and was in response to industry requests to provide better options to accommodate their exploration cycle,” Mr Moore said.

According to the state government, Round 5 applications will open in February-March 2012 for drilling projects to take place between July 2012 and June 2013.