The Australian Government has been considering a proposal to continue the use and extend the operating life of the North West Shelf gas processing plant in Karratha, Western Australia, beyond the expiry of its current approval in 2030.
Following the consideration of rigorous scientific and other advice including submissions from a wide cross-section of the community, I have today made a proposed decision to approve this development, subject to strict conditions, particularly relating to the impact of air emissions levels from the operation of an expanded on-shore Karratha gas plant.
In making my proposed decision I was required to consider:
- the potential impacts of extending the life of the plant on the national heritage values of nearby ancient rock art, and
- economic and social matters concerning the proposed development.
Based on the evidence before me and the Department's recommendations, my proposed decision is subject to strict conditions.
My responsibility is to consider the acceptability of the project's impact on protected matters. In this case, the impact of air emissions on the Murujuga rock art that forms part of the Dampier Archipelago was considered as part of the assessment process. I have ensured that adequate protection for the rock art is central to my proposed decision.
I have provided the proponent with an opportunity to comment within the statutory timeframe of 10 business days, and I will consider the proponent's comments before a final decision is made.
