The Territory Labor Government has successfully delivered legislation to guide development of the onshore shale gas industry, in line with the 135 recommendations from the ‘Scientific Inquiry into Hydraulic Fracturing in the Northern Territory’ (Pepper Inquiry).

Today, the Petroleum Legislation Amendment Bill 2022 passed in parliament, satisfying 13 of the relevant 135 recommendations.  

These include empowering the community through key decision making process, mandatory insurance requirements for all petroleum interests and enabling a more rigorous legislative framework that provides a strong deterrent for non compliance.

Quotes from Minister for Mining and Industry Nicole Manison:

“The Territory Labor Government is continuing to deliver upon its commitment to implement all 135 recommendations of the Pepper Inquiry.

These laws address 13 of the 135 critical recommendations to make onshore shale gas development in the Northern Territory not only sustainable, but world class and best practice.

Gas will play a critical role in the renewable energy transition as we move toward a greener future, and will be crucial for the Territory economy and local jobs.

Government has collaborated with the Territory’s Land Councils to strengthen consent provisions in the legislation. Traditional Owner consent is non-negotiable, and exploration or production cannot and will not proceed without it.”

Nicole Manison
Minister for Mining and Industry

Source: NT Government Newsroom