Australia Greenlights Major Coal Seam Gas Expansion in Queensland
The federal government has granted approval for a significant coal seam gas expansion in Queensland, a decision that will remain in effect until 2081. This project is projected to generate approximately 120 million tonnes of carbon emissions over its operational lifespan, drawing sharp criticism from environmental advocates.
Project Details and Environmental Impact
The expansion, managed by Australia Pacific LNG, permits the construction, operation, and eventual decommissioning of new gas infrastructure in Queensland's Surat and Bowen basins. Key components include up to 1,695 new gas wells, 1,545 kilometres of gas and water pipelines, and three processing facilities, which are expected to produce around 2,033 petajoules of gas. Operations are slated to continue until 2061, with an extended approval period to ensure compliance with environmental standards.
According to the project's public environment report, it will emit 9 million tonnes of carbon dioxide during construction and operation, plus an additional 111 million tonnes from burning the gas. This total exceeds Australia's annual transport emissions, highlighting the substantial environmental footprint.
Climate Concerns and Government Response
Amanda McKenzie, chief executive of the Climate Council, condemned the approval, noting it as the 36th fossil fuel project sanctioned by the Albanese government. She likened the move to "lighting another cigarette while you're trying to quit smoking," arguing that it undermines efforts to reduce climate pollution. McKenzie emphasized that communities are already facing severe climate impacts, such as record heat and flooding, and new pollution sources only exacerbate these harms.
In response, a government spokesperson stated that the project underwent rigorous scientific review and is subject to 126 environmental conditions. They added that it must reduce emissions annually and achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 under the strengthened Safeguard Mechanism.
Industry and Opposition Perspectives
Australia Pacific LNG, a joint venture involving ConocoPhillips, Origin Energy, and Sinopec, welcomed the approval. A spokesperson said the Gas Supply Security Project will help meet export contracts and supply domestic gas to Australia's east coast, ensuring energy security for the future.
However, Ellen Roberts, national coordinator of Lock the Gate, countered this view, pointing out that Queensland already has over 16,000 coal seam gas wells. She argued that the project is not about energy security but rather about boosting profits for multinational gas exporters, as existing production already exceeds domestic usage.
This approval has ignited a broader debate on balancing economic interests with environmental responsibilities, as Australia continues to navigate its climate commitments amid growing global pressure.
