Queensland Releases Gas Discussion Paper

Australian state of Queensland’s natural resources and mines ministry November 6 launched state’s first industry-wide gas discussion paper in an effort to manage gas issues.

The 38-page paper named Queensland gas supply and demand action plan discussion paper, with 29 reform ideas was released by natural resources and mines minister Anthony Lynham. “The gas sector is critical to the Queensland economy for the jobs, revenue, regional growth and significant economic benefits it delivers,” Lynham said. “We have strong demand, and solid foundations for reliable supply for the next 30 years, but there are challenges. That’s why we are developing a gas supply and demand action plan to tackle the challenges and maximise supply, economic and job benefits for Queensland.”

Natural resources and mines minister Anthony Lynham (Credit: Queensland government)

The minister stated that paper’s 29 recommendations focus on supply and the gas sector’s “social licence”, the community’s general acceptance of the resources sector and its activities.

“Building community understanding and confidence in the gas sector and striking the right balance between environmental protection, health and safety and social performance will be critical for its ongoing growth,” he said. Submissions close on December 19, 2016.

Gas exploration, especially of unconventionals, has become a contentious issue in many Australian states. Many states have banned fracking because of protests from community and environemntal groups. 

Shardul Sharma