Victorian Government’s restart of onshore gas development welcomed by Australian chemistry sector

382
Media Release

Chemistry Australia has welcomed the announcement today by the Victorian Government of a return to onshore conventional gas exploration and development in Victoria from 1 July, 2021.

Chemistry Australia CEO Samantha Read said the Association welcomes Premier Andrews’ science-based approach to gas exploration and supports the Government’s plan for a rigorous and transparent regulatory framework to underpin the resumption of gas production in Victoria.

“The announcement today is a significant step toward improving gas supply to the East Coast gas market,” said Ms Read.

“We urge all states to follow the Victorian Government’s lead and lift existing bans on conventional gas developments.”

“Our sector is a significant user of gas, generating $286 million of value for every petajoule of gas it uses.

“The industry contributes $38 billion to Australia’s GDP every year and supports hundreds of thousands of Australian jobs.

“Sufficient supply of affordable gas is vital for our industry to maintain its manufacturing capability and significant contribution to the Australian economy.

“We look forward to working with the Victorian Government, the industry supply chain and the community to realise the full potential of Australia’s gas reserves.”