Gas promising for Kimberley jobs and families

• Dozens of Nookanbah locals involved in hydraulic fracturing program
• Government committed to protecting public health, water and the environment

Mines and Petroleum Minister Bill Marmion said the direct involvement of up to 30 of the Yungngnora people of Nookanbah in a just-completed gas well stimulation program highlighted the extraordinary promise of the Kimberley gas industry.

"What we are seeing is a triumph of common sense, local engagement and world-leading regulation," Mr Marmion said.

"This is potentially a landmark moment for Kimberley jobs and communities.  If the two stimulated wells live up to their promise, it could lead to long-term employment, new skills and better futures for local families and their children.

"This stands in stark contrast to the Labor Party's proposed anti-jobs moratorium on gas fracking, which will deny regional opportunities.

"And that's not to mention the broader benefits of accessible gas for Western Australia's growing domestic market, especially for industry."

Buru Energy has just completed hydraulic fracturing of the Asgard North 1 and Valhalla 1 wells, reporting promising gas flows.

"The operations were carried out in full compliance with WA's stringent regulations and under extensive supervision," the Minister said.

"Department of Mines and Petroleum staff were on site to monitor the start of the stimulation programs, followed up by daily operation reports to the department."

Detailed information on the program is fully public on the department's website, including 520 pages of environmental and well management plans and a complete list of stimulation fluid components.

"There is no hydraulic fracturing in WA without full chemical disclosure because the State Government is committed to protecting public health, water supplies and the environment," Mr Marmion said.

"I congratulate the Yungngnora people and Buru Energy for working closely together on this project, which I hope reveals a major petroleum resource and the jobs and opportunities it can bring."

Fact File

• Almost 800 hydraulic fractures have been safely performed in WA since the mid-1960s
• There have been no confirmed cases of groundwater contamination, after more than 4,000 hydraulic fracture operations Australia-wide
• For more information, visit http://www.dmp.wa.gov.au/15136.aspx  

Minister's office - 6552 6800