Queensland puts its hand up for more industry supported by local gas

THE CONTRAST between resources-friendly Queensland and the Southern States has deepened, with yet more investment in the local gas industry while other states remain locked up according to the Queensland Resources Council (QRC).

QRC chief executive Ian Macfarlane has welcomed Queensland Resources Minister Anthony Lynham’s announcement that another four companies would explore for gas on more than 6600 square kilometres in the Surat and Bowen Basins, and the Eromanga and Adavale Basins.

“We back our resources industry in Queensland, and that means we’re in the box seat to supply local gas users and support local jobs,” Mr Macfarlane said.

“This latest release of land from the Queensland Government, with the condition that gas developed be used to supply the domestic market, will further entrench Queensland’s role as the state keeping the East Coast gas market afloat.

“How much longer will NSW and Victoria rely on Queensland to make the investments that keep their industries supplied with gas and keep their economies ticking?

“Reliable and affordable gas is a must-have for Australian industries, including refining and manufacturing. Given transport costs add at least an extra $2 a gigajoule to the price of gas, it’s time for Australian businesses and manufacturers who are based in either NSW or Victoria to consider a move to the Sunshine State.

“With a go-slow on gas development, or in the case of Victoria a blanket ban on some types of gas projects, what the Southern States are really saying is they’re not prepared to support local jobs and local industry," Mr Macfarlane said.

“Queensland is putting up its hand for more investment made possible by a strong resources industry that creates jobs, supports regional communities and has paid $387 million in agreements with landholders to develop CSG/LNG projects.”

www.qrc.org.au

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