Planning changes delivered to prohibit gas exploration in 16 LGAs

The NSW Government has given effect to its Future of Gas Statement, with historic amendments to the State Environmental Planning Policy (SEPP), helping deliver a 77 per cent reduction of areas available for gas exploration in NSW.

Deputy Premier and Minister responsible for Resources John Barilaro said the changes reflect the NSW Government’s commitment to support sustainable gas exploration in the state and provide certainty to industry and communities.

Mr Barilaro said gas exploration and production is now prohibited in 16 Local Government Areas across the Central West, Orana, New England North West and Hunter regions, with the exception of areas that could support the long-term future of the Narrabri Gas Project.

"Today’s changes to the SEPP are a doubling down on the promise we made in July with the Future of Gas Statement – we are delivering on our promise of a balanced approach to gas in NSW,” Mr Barilaro said.

“The remaining active Petroleum Exploration Licences (PELs) will ensure the viability of the Narrabri Gas Project, which is a crucial project for regional economies and vital for manufacturers and heavy energy users while keeping power prices down.

“Not only will the project supply about half of our domestic gas, it will also create 1,350 jobs during construction and 200 ongoing local jobs, and generate up to $3 billion in direct revenue for the NSW and Commonwealth governments through royalties and taxes.

“When we formed government in 2011, almost half of NSW was the subject of a gas exploration title or application. Today’s changes provide certainty to industry and communities, cutting that to just 1.5 per cent of the State.”