Oz Asks for Comments on 2020 Offshore Offering

The Australian government has opened a public consultation on areas proposed for the 2020 offshore petroleum exploration acreage release, it said on May 5 in a statement.

Minister for resources, water and Northern Australia Keith Pitt said 49 areas had been nominated by the oil and gas industry off the coasts of Western Australia, Northern Territory, Victoria and the Territory of the Ashmore and Cartier Islands.

“We have received numerous and diverse nominations from petroleum exploration and production companies and the seismic industry,” Pitt said. “The continuing release of offshore acreage for petroleum exploration is a crucial way of attracting investment in Australia resources sector and strengthening the economy for the good of all Australians.”

Consultation provides an opportunity for stakeholders to comment on the nominated areas and to raise issues about the potential impact of exploration activities, the government said.

Responses will inform petroleum explorers of specific issues or concerns which can be taken into account when planning these activities. All submissions will be considered before a decision is taken on including the nominated areas in the acreage release. Submission can be made until June 29.