Western Australian (WA) Mines and Petroleum Minister Bill Johnston is inviting industry to bid on eight onshore areas across the State for petroleum exploration.
The blocks range from 400 to 7,070 square kilometres and are spread over the Canning, Northern Carnarvon, Amadeus, and Perth Basins.
According to the WA Government, the release offers new investment opportunities for explorers in WA’s petroleum sector and provides long-term support for developing the WA’s oil and gas resources.
“WA’s petroleum sector remains an important contributor to our State’s ongoing economic success, with more than 12,600 workers employed in oil and gas,” Minister Johnston said.
Minister Johnston stated that the Energy Policy WA model predicts that by 2030, 3.9 gigawatts of new gas generation will be needed to support renewable energy adoption.
“The Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety and other Government agencies rigorously assess all WA petroleum activities and undertake regular environmental and safety compliance audits,” he added.
The State Government noted that the Department conducted a thorough evaluation of environmental constraints, land use planning, and native title considerations before releasing the blocks.
The Australian Energy Producers have welcomed the release, stating it is a positive step towards energy security and ensuring an affordable and reliable gas supply to the State following forecasts of growing demand in coming years.
“New gas supply is critical to the state’s future with demand set to tighten in coming years as gas powers WA’s resources and growing critical minerals sector and supports renewables in the South West electricity system as coal-fired power exits,” Australian Energy Producers WA Director Caroline Cherry said.
“Exploration also unlocks community investment and new jobs in regional areas. This release demonstrates the state’s understanding of the importance of new gas to WA’s net zero future,” she added.
Successful applicants can obtain an exploration permit, allowing them to conduct activities within the specified title for six years.
All applications are subject to approval by the Department of Mines, Industry Regulation, and Safety before any exploration activity occurs.
This will be the only petroleum acreage release for 2023, with applications due on 19 January 2024.
