Media Release
Chemistry Australia, the pre-eminent national body representing Australia’s chemicals and plastics industries, has welcomed the Independent Planning Commission’s (IPC) ‘phased approval’ today of the Narrabri Gas Project in New South Wales.
Chemistry Australia CEO, Samantha Read, said the IPC’s decision today is positive for both industry and the Australian economy.
“Natural gas is used in the business of chemistry to manufacture a broad range of products and services, which are used throughout the economy,” Ms Read said.
“For example, it is used as a feedstock to produce fertilisers to increase crop production, surfactants for pesticides that reduce crop damage, packaging to keep food fresh and secure, hygiene and cleaning products to prevent virus contamination and for water purification that produces safe drinking water.”
“We know that every petajoule of gas used in the chemistry industry adds $286 million to Australia’s GDP, which means this project has the potential to provide greater certainty for investment and jobs in regional and metropolitan communities.”
“This is particularly important as the Australian economy works to recover from the impacts of the COVID-19 global pandemic, and we believe this new project is critical to progressing a gas-led recovery.”
Ms Read said it is crucial that local industry has access to globally competitive gas prices.
“Ensuring we make full use of our nation’s abundant natural gas is key to building a stronger economy and society that benefits all Australians. This requires a confident, functioning gas market for producers and users that ensures Australian manufacturing is globally competitive,” Ms Read said.
Ms Read said the ‘regulatory regimes’ included in today’s IPC decision provide a clear and accountable process to help preserve the region’s environmental importance.
“It is crucial the intent of the IPC approval and its regulatory compliance obligations deliver net benefit certainty for landowners and communities,” Ms Read said.
Image credit: www.chemistryaustralia.org.au
