The Coalition Government is helping to boost the development of the nation’s gas reserves with a $7.5 million grant to support exploration in the Northern Territory’s Beetaloo Sub-Basin.

The grant agreement with Sweetpea Petroleum Pty Ltd, a subsidiary of Tamboran Resources, will further assist gas operators in their efforts to prove up Beetaloo gas reserves. 

All regulatory approvals will need to be in place prior to any funding being provided under the grant.

Minister for Resources and Water Keith Pitt said the grant underlined the commitment of the Government to opening up Beetaloo.

“Beetaloo has the potential to provide a world-class gas resource and we are determined to support its development as part of our gas-led recovery,” Minister Pitt said.

“This grant under the Beetaloo Cooperative Drilling Program is expected to bring forward $52 million in private investment at Sweetpea Petroleum’s Maverick 1 well.

“Investment such as this will help accelerate gas development in the Beetaloo, which has the potential to create thousands of jobs. 

“Gas from the basin can also make a significant contribution to maintaining Australia’s affordable and reliable energy supplies.

“We should take the energy crisis in Europe as a warning of what could happen in Australia if there is not enough investment in the gas sector.

“As uncertainty grips the world, our international partners will look to Australia for the resources they need to provide energy security.

“In an uncertain world, our reputation as a leading and reliable supplier of resources can provide stability and development of the Beetaloo will enhance that well-deserved reputation.”

The Beetaloo Cooperative Drilling Program is part of the Beetaloo Strategic Basin Plan and the Government’s $226 million commitment to the Beetaloo, which is supporting gas operators to speed up exploration and development of the basin.

The Hon Keith Pitt MP

Minister for Resources and Water

Media contact: Minister Pitt's office 02 6277 7180