The orderly restart of Victoria's onshore conventional gas industry will now proceed as planned with on ground exploration and development activity possible from 1 July 2021.
Onshore conventional gas is gas that does not involve fracking. Fracking and coal seam gas extraction are banned in Victoria
The Petroleum Legislation Amendment Bill 2020 passed the Legislative Council this week. A best practice regulatory framework will now be developed to enhance the need for the industry to better engage local communities. Victorians will be able to have their say on these regulations through the Regulatory Impact Statement process.
Three years of detailed scientific investigations through the Victorian Gas Program found an onshore conventional gas industry would not compromise Victoria's environment or our vital agricultural sector.
The investigations were overseen by Victoria's Lead Scientist, Dr Amanda Caples, who chaired an independent Stakeholder Advisory Panel made up of farmers, environment groups, industry representatives and local councils.
Minister Symes media release 16 June 2020: Onshore Conventional Gas Restart A Green Light For Jobs
