Land release a positive move for Queensland gas sector
Click here for photo of QRC Chief Executive Officer Janette Hewson
The Queensland Resources Council (QRC) says the State Government’s decision to unlock more land for gas exploration is a positive step towards the sector’s growth and energy security across Australia’s east coast.
QRC Chief Executive Officer Janette Hewson welcomed the announcement by Minister for Natural Resources and Mines, Minister for Manufacturing and Minister for Regional and Rural Development, Dale Last, which will provide Queensland gas producers certainty.
“QRC, through its exploration arm the Queensland Exploration Council, has been advocating to Government that more land be released for exploration to unlock more supply of gas into Queensland and the east coast,” Ms Hewson said.
“Queensland gas producers have long been doing the heavy lifting to meet demand that has kept industry running and the lights on in homes throughout eastern Australia.
“QRC also welcomes the announcement of a three-month land release review to provide gas producers with greater certainty about tenures and reduce the possibility of overlap with other exploration.”
Ms Hewson said both the Australian and Queensland Governments have confirmed the crucial role that gas will play in the energy transition.
“The land release can unlock the vast gas reserves in Queensland’s Cooper Eromanga and Bowen Surat Basins that will contribute to reliable and affordable energy that homeowners and businesses are looking for,” Ms Hewson said.
“Boosting supply is the best way to bring down prices and this announcement will help achieve that.
“QRC looks forward to continuing to work with the Government on streamlining the approvals process to remove duplication and excessive regulation so gas projects can move into production sooner and deliver benefits to all Queenslanders.”
Queensland’s gas sector contributed more than $17 billion to the state’s economy and supported 73,000 local jobs in 2024.
Media Contact:
Jana Dore – [email protected]
Matt Dunstan – [email protected]
