Kevin Gallagher, CEO of Santos, addressed the Energy Club NT at an industry networking luncheon, highlighting Santos and the Darwin LNG joint venture's commitment to investing $3 million in funding KAEFER’s program, an initiative that aims to provide traineeships and apprenticeships in trades, administration, and HSE over the next four years, contributing to the Northern Territory's economic and social development.

Gallagher emphasised Santos's dedication to addressing Aboriginal disadvantage in the Northern Territory by focusing on training, education, and job creation. He highlighted the importance of real action to empower individuals, strengthen families, and build resilient communities.

Under Gallagher's leadership, Santos has increased its investment in the Territory, focusing on projects like the DLNG life extension, gas delivery from the Barossa field, and plans to transform Bayu-Undan into a carbon capture and storage hub. The Bayu-Undan CCS project is positioned to make Barossa one of the world's lowest carbon LNG projects.

Gallagher acknowledged the economic significance of Santos's Barossa and Darwin LNG projects to the Northern Territory, generating substantial local workforce employment and supply opportunities. He highlighted the positive impact of the DLNG life extension, creating jobs and boosting local businesses.

Addressing the global role of the Territory, Gallagher stressed the importance of Australia's active participation in the Asian region, particularly in supplying gas to meet growing demand. He emphasized the need for Australia to maintain its position as a leading and trusted gas supplier, considering the potential consequences of not doing so.

Additionally, Gallagher addressed the challenges of the global energy transformation and the race to net zero. He highlighted the importance of carbon capture and storage technology and the role it plays in achieving emissions reduction goals.

Gallagher also announced the establishment of the Barossa Aboriginal Future Fund, a $10 million investment in Northern Territory coastal Aboriginal communities. This fund, combined with ongoing support, is expected to contribute over $100 million to these communities over the next two decades, creating a lasting impact on health, education, housing, community resilience, and economic outcomes for Aboriginal people.

Santos's new shopfront in the Smith St Mall will be open to the public on Monday, 5th February, providing a platform for the community to learn more about Santos's activities, job opportunities, and to share feedback.

The industry networking luncheon was sponsored by KAEFER.

To view Mr. Kevin Gallagher's speech, click here.

To view photos from the event, click here.