Industry News

Santos today announced the spudding of its first appraisal well in the Beetaloo Basin, marking a major milestone towards unlocking a new source of long-term gas supply for Australian households, businesses and industry as well as supporting national and regional energy security.

The commencement of drilling follows approval of Santos’ Environmental Management Plan (EMP) by the Northern Territory Minister for Lands, Planning and Environment in May 2026, authorising the appraisal drilling program.

Spudding the well is a critical first step in the drilling process with the drill bit breaking ground on Friday morning. Territory-based contractor Exact Contracting completed construction of the well pad, access tracks and key road intersection upgrades, paving the way for drilling operations to commence.

Santos Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Kevin Gallagher said spudding the first appraisal well was a significant achievement for Santos and the Northern Territory – and for Australia.

“The Beetaloo Basin is a phenomenal resource of national importance. Santos is excited to be investing in a Territory that understands what responsible gas development delivers – more jobs and local business opportunities, stronger communities and a resilient economy for Territorians,” Mr Gallagher said.

“The first appraisal well is a critical milestone as we work to prove the commerciality of this world class gas resource, with our acreage alone having the potential to supply up to 10 Mtpa[1] LNG and serve the northern and east coast domestic gas markets for 50 years or more.

“We have moved methodically and responsibly to secure regulatory approvals, engaged with the community including pastoralists and Traditional Owners, and established the infrastructure to drill safely and effectively.

“Santos is one of few companies with the capability to discover, develop, process, transport and market gas through a fully integrated supply chain, including the potential for decarbonisation through carbon capture and storage,” Mr Gallagher said.

The Beetaloo Sub-basin, part of the greater McArthur Basin, is estimated to contain more than 430 trillion cubic feet (tcf) of undiscovered gas-in-place on a basin-wide P50 basis, making it one of the most significant onshore gas opportunities in the world.

The resource, developed at scale, could be a game changer for the Northern Territory and Australia, creating more than 6,500 full-time jobs and delivering economic benefits of up to A$2.8 billion for the Northern Territory and over A$9 billion for Australia over 25 years.[2]

Northern Territory Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro said the return of Santos to onshore activity in the NT was another strong signal of the continued confidence in the Beetaloo.

“The Beetaloo Basin is now delivering first gas to the Territory, and we are seeing the next wave of investment and development activity gathering momentum,” the Chief Minister said.

“Santos is a global leader in gas development and it has already demonstrated the quality of the resource in EP161 through its previous drilling and flow testing program.

“Santos’ return to drilling in the Beetaloo Basin is warmly welcomed and is an important next step in unlocking the basin.”

Santos was originally an acronym for South Australia Northern Territory Oil Search.

“The ‘NT’ is more than just a part of SANTOS’ name and its history – the NT is very much a big part of their future as well,” the Chief Minister said.

Santos has a long history in the Top End with more than 40 years of active operations from Mereenie in the Amadeus Basin to Darwin LNG and the Barossa gas project.

The Beetaloo appraisal campaign follows Santos’ success commissioning the Barossa gas project, which feeds the revitalised Darwin LNG plant and is now averaging one LNG cargo every 8 days to provide energy security for Australia’s regional trading partners for decades to come.

The Barossa gas project has also secured approximately 300 permanent positions in the Northern Territory for the next 20 years, with an estimated A$2.5 billion worth of wages and contracts expected to flow for Territorians over that time.

Darwin LNG provides a natural launch pad for the next phase of Northern Territory energy development, including carbon management, a potential pipeline connection to the Beetaloo and a second LNG train fed by Beetaloo gas.

To view and download the full media release, click here. 

Source: Santos

• Tamboran Resources and Daly Waters Energy, LP (DWE) have commenced initial gas sales from the company’s Shenandoah South Pilot Project in the Beetaloo Basin, Northern Territory.

• The milestone marks the first volumes delivered from the Beetaloo Basin to the Northern Territory gas market, bringing affordable and secure energy to the region.

• Volumes from the field are expected to ramp up to the full 40 terajoules per day (TJ/d) contracted to the Northern Territory Government under a long-term take-or-pay agreement by early 2027.

• During this commissioning period, Tamboran and DWE will receive a discounted price for the gas, reflecting the interruptible nature of supply during the commissioning period.

Tamboran Resources Corporation Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Todd Abbott, said:

“Over the weekend, Tamboran and our joint venture partner DWE delivered our first molecules of gas from the Beetaloo Basin into the Northern Territory gas network. This marks a major milestone for the Beetaloo Basin, the Northern Territory and our key stakeholders, who will start to see the economic benefit of locally supplied energy.

“This is an important first step towards establishing the Beetaloo Basin as a reliable, long-term source of natural gas for the Northern Territory and, over time, the broader Australian East Coast market.

“I would like to thank our joint venture partner DWE, the Northern Territory Government and the entire Tamboran team, whose dedication and hard work have made this milestone possible. We look forward to ramping up to full contracted volumes and completing commissioning by early 2027 as we continue to unlock the significant potential of the Beetaloo Basin.”

To the view the full announcement, click here.

Source: Tamboran Resources 

The Northern Territory has reached a significant milestone in its energy history, with first gas now flowing from the Beetaloo Basin into the Territory's gas network. The achievement represents the culmination of years of exploration, investment, regulatory reform and infrastructure development, transforming the Beetaloo from a resource with enormous potential into an active source of energy supply for Territorians.

Central to this achievement has been the successful commissioning of the Sturt Plateau Compression Facility (SPCF) and APA Group's newly constructed Sturt Plateau Pipeline (SPP), which together provide the critical infrastructure needed to transport Beetaloo gas to market.

The Sturt Plateau Compression Facility, a joint venture between Daly Waters Energy and Tamboran Resources, was delivered on schedule. The facility is capable of processing up to 50 terajoules of gas per day and serves as the final link required to commence gas deliveries from the Shenandoah South Pilot Project into the Northern Territory gas network. Five wells have already been drilled, completed and connected to the facility, enabling the start of commercial gas sales during the commissioning period.

Once processed through the SPCF, Beetaloo gas enters APA's new Sturt Plateau Pipeline, which connects the Beetaloo Basin to the existing Amadeus Gas Pipeline network. This important piece of infrastructure now allows locally produced gas to flow north and support homes, businesses and industry across the Territory, strengthening domestic energy security and creating a platform for future supply opportunities.

APA Group described the occasion as a major milestone not only for the Beetaloo Basin but also for the Northern Territory's future energy landscape. The construction of the pipeline involved more than 100,000 work hours, the installation of over 2,000 tonnes of pipe, extensive consultation with landholders, Traditional Owners and community stakeholders, and was completed with an exemplary safety record. The project demonstrates the scale of collaboration required to unlock new energy resources in regional Australia.

The Northern Territory Government has also welcomed first gas as a transformational moment for the Territory economy. Government projections estimate Beetaloo Basin development could generate more than $17 billion in economic value over the next two decades and support more than 13,000 jobs by 2040 through construction activity, business opportunities, royalties and long-term employment. The milestone reinforces the Territory's position as an emerging energy powerhouse and a key contributor to Australia's future energy security.

Industry leaders have highlighted that the successful delivery of the SPCF and Sturt Plateau Pipeline reflects the strength of collaboration between industry, government, Traditional Owners, landholders, contractors and local communities. This partnership-driven approach has enabled the rapid development of critical infrastructure while establishing a foundation for future investment across the Basin.

While first gas is a landmark achievement in itself, stakeholders agree it is only the beginning of the Beetaloo story. The newly commissioned infrastructure network creates opportunities for expanded production, future pipeline connections and broader domestic and export market access. As development continues, the Beetaloo Basin is expected to play an increasingly important role in supporting the Northern Territory's economic growth, energy reliability and long-term prosperity.

Sources: Northern Territory Government Newsroom, Tamboran Resources, APA Group, Daly Waters Energy/Formentera Partners 

• Jemena to apply for a pipeline permit to develop a proposed 400-kilometre pipeline lateral connecting the Beetaloo Basin to the Northern Gas Pipeline.

• The project will create a practical pathway for future Northern Territory gas supply to reach customers across Australia’s east coast.

• Jemena will sponsor 20 Indigenous delegates at this year's NT Resources Week and continue its partnership with Saltbush Social Enterprises through the Foundation to Future program.

Jemena has taken the next step in developing infrastructure that could help deliver future gas supplies from the Northern Territory to customers across Australia's east coast, with the company set to apply for a pipeline permit to support a proposed connection between the Beetaloo Basin and the Northern Gas Pipeline.

The permit would enable Jemena to progress planning for a proposed 400-kilometre pipeline which would create a direct pathway for gas from the Beetaloo Basin, one of Australia's most significant emerging gas resources, to reach domestic markets using existing infrastructure.

Announcing the plan at NT Resources Week in Darwin, Jemena Managing Director David Gillespie said the company’s Northern Territory Gas Strategy is designed to expand infrastructure in line with market demand and production growth.

"Australia will continue to need reliable gas supply for power generation, businesses and industry, and manufacturers. Infrastructure has a vital role to play in connecting new sources of supply with customers," Mr Gillespie said.

"The Beetaloo Basin has the potential to become an important new source of gas for Australia, and our Northern Territory Gas Strategy is designed to ensure transportation infrastructure can grow alongside production."

"By building on the existing Northern Gas Pipeline, which already connects the Northern Territory with gas infrastructure on the east coast, we're creating a scalable and cost-effective pathway that can support future gas supply, strengthen market connectivity, and help bring new Northern Territory gas to Australian customers."

Commissioned in 2018, the Northern Gas Pipeline remains the only direct link between Territory gas fields and gas customers across Australia’s east coast. The pipeline can currently transport around 90 terajoules of gas per day, with capacity able to increase to approximately 130 terajoules per day through additional compression.

Mr Gillespie said the Northern Gas Pipeline and existing Territory infrastructure would also provide an important foundation for meeting future domestic gas supply requirements, including any obligations arising from the proposed Domestic Gas Reservation Scheme.

"While the details of the scheme continue to be worked through, the Northern Gas Pipeline already provides an established route for Territory gas to reach domestic customers and support Australia's energy needs," he said.

Once granted, the pipeline permit will allow Jemena to continue technical studies, environmental investigations and stakeholder engagement activities to support the project's development.

Building on a decade of partnerships in the Northern Territory

For more than a decade, Jemena has invested in the people and communities of the Northern Territory, supporting employment, training opportunities, and Indigenous engagement through long-term partnerships that create lasting economic and social benefits.

“We’re very proud of the relationships we established during the construction of the $800 million Northern Gas Pipeline and are thrilled that these are continuing today through our sponsorship of NT Resources Week and ongoing partnership with Saltbush Social Enterprises,” Mr Gillespie said.

As the Indigenous Delegate sponsor of NT Resources Week, Jemena is supporting 20 Indigenous Australians to attend this year’s conference. The company also announced ongoing funding of Saltbush Social Enterprise’s Foundation to Future program, which delivers workforce readiness, mentoring, and employment pathways for Indigenous Territorians.

The construction of the Northern Gas Pipeline created over 900 jobs, 75 per cent of which were awarded to people living in the communities surrounding the pipeline route. The project also generated more than $50 million in spending with Northern Territory small businesses.

To view the full media release, click here.

Source: Jemena

• Tamboran and Liberty Energy (NYSE: LBRT) have entered into a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) setting out the intent to extend the hydraulic fracture stimulation and wireline services agreement covering Tamboran's operations in the Beetaloo Basin.
   
• The MOU builds on a partnership that began in 2023. Liberty commenced stimulation operations in the Beetaloo Basin in January 2025 and operates the largest stimulation fleet in Australia.
   
• In July 2026, the companies completed the largest stimulation campaign in the history of the Beetaloo Basin and the basin's first three-well zipper stimulation, placing 178 stages across approximately 30,000 feet of the Mid Velkerri B Shale, averaging 6.7 stages per day and setting basin records of 12 stages in a single day and pumping operations exceeding 20 hours per day.
   
• Liberty intends to begin phasing lower-emissions pumping equipment into the Beetaloo fleet from 2027, and the companies intend to jointly evaluate deployment of a next-generation, lower-emissions completions fleet over the term of any extension.
   
• The MOU further contemplates priority access for Tamboran to a broader set of Liberty capabilities as they are introduced to Australia, including gas processing and conditioning and remote gas-fired power generation through Liberty Power Innovations, PropX sand slurry delivery and collaboration on the development of local proppant supply. This builds on the first placement of locally produced Beetaloo Red Sand during the July 2026 campaign.

To view the full ASX Announcement, click here 

APA Group (ASX: APA) today welcomes the Queensland Office of the Coordinator General’s decision to assign the North to East Australia Pipeline (NEAP) Coordinated Project status as the formal environmental assessment process for the Beetaloo Basin east coast pipeline connection commences.

To view the full media release, click here.

To view the landing page and video, visit: Securing Domestic Gas: North to East Australia Pipeline (NEAP) Milestone | APA Group

Source: APA Group

• Today the gas from the Beetaloo Sub-basin will flow into the Territory network for the first time, on its way to powering homes and businesses.

• Long-term Beetaloo gas contracts will replace costly emergency gas arrangements, placing downward pressure on energy prices and improving reliability.

• The Beetaloo is a major step in transforming the Territory into an energy powerhouse, enhancing the security of both the Territory and the nation.

In a historic moment for the Territory, Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro today will cut the ribbon to mark the flow of first gas from the Beetaloo Sub-basin.

This achievement will transform the Beetaloo from a long-discussed opportunity into a reality that is delivering energy security and opportunity for Territorians.

After years of uncertainty and delays, the Finocchiaro CLP Government has worked to restore confidence in the Territory's energy potential, providing the certainty needed for industry to invest and this critical project to progress.

The Chief Minister will join Minister for Energy Gerard Maley, Member for Barkly Steve Edgington and Tamboran CEO Todd Abbott at the Shenandoah South development for the commissioning today.

The Chief Minister said the commencement of Beetaloo gas production was a landmark moment that would deliver lasting benefits for households, businesses and taxpayers.

"This project means Territory gas powering Territory homes, businesses and industry," the Chief Minister said.

“This is a win for all Territorians and a true turning point for the Territory.

"After years of relying on costly emergency gas arrangements caused by Labor’s mismanagement of the Territory’s energy sector, we have secured Beetaloo gas at a fixed price the Government is extremely satisfied with, locked in for the next decade.

“Putting downward pressure on energy prices over time, helping to curb price increases, while also reinforcing reliability is a major step forward for the Territory."

The NT Government has previously been required to source emergency gas supplies at significantly higher costs to ensure reliable power generation.

The Chief Minister said Beetaloo gas was a strategic asset in reinforcing the nation's energy security.

“At a time when we have seen the consequences of not investing in energy independence, the Territory is stepping up to become a reliable energy producer while ensuring Territorians benefit from the development of our world-class resources,” the Chief Minister said.

Minister for Mining and Energy Gerard Maley said the milestone demonstrated how responsible resource development could deliver practical benefits for Territorians.

"Today's achievement means we are cementing the Territory as a competitive destination for energy production," Minister Maley said.

"When Territorians switch on their lights, power their businesses or open their fridges, they can have confidence that Territory gas is helping keep energy flowing."

Source: Northern Territory Government Newsroom

• The Finocchiaro CLP Government has welcomed the largest NT Resources Week ever held in the 18 years of the symposium.

• The conference will connect over 900 mining, exploration, engineering, oil and gas, construction, and environmental management sector delegates from across Australia and the globe.

• With 16 developing mining projects underway across the Territory, NT Resources Week is a chance to unpack this enormous growth opportunity.

The Finocchiaro CLP Government has welcomed the commencement of the largest-ever NT Resources Week, as the sector celebrates a major milestone with first gas now flowing from the Beetaloo Sub-basin.

Now in its 18th year, NT Resources Week will bring together more than 900 industry leaders from across Australia and the globe. From the mining, exploration, engineering, oil and gas, construction and environmental management sectors, delegates will meet at the Darwin Convention Centre on 2 and 3 September.

NT Resources Week combines three flagship events: the South East Asia Australia Offshore and Onshore Conference (SEAAOC), Mining the Territory, and the Clean Energy and Digital Infrastructure Forum.

This year the conference will discuss the Northern Territory’s growing role in meeting global demand for critical minerals, provide updates from major mining operations, showcase new exploration activity and regional project development, and feature presentations from major proponents including Tamboran Resources, Beetaloo Energy, Daly Waters Energy, Santos and Arafura Rare Earths.

Minister for Mining and Energy Gerard Maley said the event comes at a pivotal time for the Territory and the sector.

“NT Resources Week showcases the enormous opportunities being unlocked across the Territory and demonstrates why we are fast becoming one of the most attractive investment destinations in Australia," Minister Maley said.

“With major projects including Arafura Rare Earths’ Nolans Project and Hanking Gold’s Mount Bundy Project commencing construction this quarter, the future is incredibly bright for Territory workers, businesses and regional communities.”

“Just this week we announced that mineral production in the Territory has skyrocketed to a record $6.08 billion."

Minister Maley said NT Resources Week would shine a spotlight on the Territory’s resources pipeline and the transformational opportunities being created through development of the Beetaloo Sub-basin.

“Development of gas resources in the Beetaloo will generate significant economic benefits for the Territory, supporting thousands of jobs, driving private investment, and reinforcing the NT’s position as a key contributor to Australia’s energy future."

"I look forward to hearing from industry leaders joining our vision for a stronger, more secure Territory," Minister Maley concluded.

Source: Northern Territory Government Newsroom

APA Group (ASX: APA) today welcomes the commissioning of first gas from Tamboran Resources Corporation’s and Daly Waters Energy’s Shenandoah South Pilot Project, marking a major milestone for the Beetaloo Basin and the Northern Territory. Beetaloo gas will flow through APA’s newly constructed Sturt Plateau Pipeline (SPP), linking with APA’s Amadeus Gas Pipeline to move Beetaloo gas north to support energy security across the Territory.

Commissioning of first gas was attended by APA CEO and Managing Director, Adam Watson, on Tuesday 1 September, who congratulated Tamboran, Daly Waters Energy and the NT Government for their joint efforts in delivering this transformational project for the NT economy.

“Congratulations to Tamboran, Daly Waters Energy and the NT Government for their vision in bringing the Beetaloo Basin to life for the benefit of Territorians,” Mr Watson said.

“APA has been an early supporter and advocate for the potential of the Beetaloo Basin and is proud to have played a role through delivery of the SPP – the crucial first-stage link that today enables Beetaloo gas to flow to deliver energy security for the Northern Territory.

“Congratulations to the APA team and contractors who worked diligently to deliver this critical piece of infrastructure – over the last 12 months, the team has worked over 100,000 hours to connect 2,050 tonnes of pipe, travelling 625,000 kilometres and delivering 97 landholder and 322 community and stakeholder engagements, with zero injuries.

“This work has been delivered in close collaboration with our customers, landholders, the NT Government, Traditional Owners and broader community stakeholders, establishing a strong foundation to move forward as we continue to progress the development of further infrastructure that can connect the Beetaloo to deliver energy for Australia’s east coast and regional LNG export markets.”

To view the full media release, click here.

Source: APA Group

Highlights

• The Sturt Plateau Compression Facility Trust (SPCF Trust), a 50/50 Joint Venture between Tamboran and Daly Waters Infrastructure, LP (DWI), has commenced gas commissioning of the SPCF with gas from wells on the Shenandoah South 2 pad.

• The SPCF is the key processing infrastructure required to deliver gas from the Shenandoah South Pilot Area to the Northern Territory gas market.

• The facility will be capable of processing up to 50 TJ/d of gas, with 40 TJ/d contracted to the Northern Territory Government (NTG) under a long-term, take-or-pay gas sales agreement (GSA).

• The SPCF construction project remains on schedule and within the P50 gross budget of A$141 million (~US$99 million).

• During commissioning, the BJV will sell gas to the NTG at a discounted rate under the long-term GSA, consistent with industry practice.

NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Tamboran Resources Corporation (NYSE: TBN, ASX: TBN):

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260831602336/en/

Tamboran Resources Corporation Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Todd Abbott, said:

“Commissioning of the Sturt Plateau Compression Facility with gas from the SS2 well pad is a major milestone for Tamboran and the Beetaloo Basin. Full credit goes to the Tamboran team, our partners, as well as our key contractors, who have delivered the project on schedule and within budget.

“With all five wells on the Shenandoah South 2 pad drilled, stimulated and tied back to the facility, we look forward to imminently delivering first gas sales of up to 40 TJ/d to the Northern Territory Government under our long-term gas sales agreement, powering Northern Territory businesses and residences.

“The Beetaloo Basin is well positioned to deliver future energy security for Australia and our trading partners across the Asia Pacific, whilst also delivering lasting job and economic opportunities for Territorians and Native Title Holders.”

About the SPCF

Owner:

SPCF Trust (50% Tamboran Resources, 50% Daly Waters Infrastructure, LP under common ownership with Tamboran’s upstream joint venture partner, Daly Waters Energy, LP)

Capacity:

50 TJ/d (~48.5 MMcf/d)

Contracted Volume:

40 TJ/d (~38.8 MMcf/d) GSA for up to 14 years with the Northern Territory Government

P50 Budget:

A$141 million (US$99 million)

This announcement was approved and authorised for release by Mr. Todd Abbott, the Chief Executive Officer of Tamboran Resources Corporation.

Source: Tamboran Resources

To view the full press release, click here.