Domestic gas strategy welcomed in Australia

The Australian government’s Domestic Gas Strategy has been applauded by the APPEA for recognising the importance of unconventional gas production to the energy mix and economic prosperity.

Paul Fennelly, Acting CEO, commented: “Unconventional gas, including natural gas from coal seams, accounts for 40% of production in the eastern Australian gas market.

LNG mega-exporter

“It also contributes significantly to our export market as Australia remains on track to be the world’s biggest exporter of liquefied natural gas (LNG) by the end of the decade.”

The government’s commitment to provide communities with more information about how industry is regulated as well as research undertaken by reputable government agencies such as the CSIRO and Geoscience Australia, is a positive step forward.

Rural investment

Fennelly added: “Industry will also continue to do more to inform communities about the science and technology that is driving significant investment in rural Australia and underpinning a world-class industry.

“We are already seeing the results of greater community interaction in Queensland where ongoing community consultation has led to a significant understanding of resource operations.

Regulatory regime

“As the Productivity Commission recently found, scientific evidence shows that the technical challenges and risks posed by gas development can be managed through a well-designed regulatory regime.

“APPEA acknowledges the strong leadership demonstrated by Minister Macfarlane and looks forward to working with the government to ensure Australia continues to benefit from safe and responsible resource production.”

The Domestic Gas Strategy is available here.

Adapted from press release by Katie Woodward

Read the article online at: https://www.lngindustry.com/liquid-natural-gas/14042015/appea-welcomes-domestic-gas-strategy-588/