Industry heads say there is some confusion over royalty arrangements for uranium in the Northern Territory.

When the Territory was granted self government 30 years ago, the Commonwealth kept ownership and mining approval for uranium.

Michael Angwin from the Australia Uranium Association says while 18 per cent of net profits from minerals go to the Territory Government, uranium royalties are determined on a case by case basis.

Mr Angwin says as uranium exploration increases, the system needs to be clarified.

"Under the current arrangement, the responsible Australian government minister determines the royalties on a case by case basis," he said.

"That creates a bit of uncertainty and our view is that we wouldn't be pressing for a royalty arrangement in the Northern Territory that is different from the general royalty arrangements that exist there."