Queensland Minister for Natural Resources and Mines, Dale Last, has today announced the opening of new tenures for gas exploration, and a review into how land is released for exploration across the resources sector in a bid to boost new investment in Queensland’s gas industry.
From tomorrow, nine new areas will made available for tender across the Cooper/Eromanga and Bowen/Surat Basins. The tender areas include both conventional and unconventional gas opportunities.
A targeted three-month land release review will get underway today, aiming to improve the efficiency and transparency of opening areas for exploration, said Minister Last.
“The best way to bring down energy prices is to have more energy in the market, and that starts with exploration,” he said.
“These steps are about unlocking new supply, securing an investment pipeline and getting the right policy settings in place so Queensland can lead the way on energy security.
“Unscientific decisions made by the southern states have left Queensland carrying the load for the east coast gas market. We need a regulatory framework that supports new development, instead of holding it back.”
The 2025 Land Release Review will ensure land is made available in a way that balances the needs of the resources sector with environmental, agricultural, and community interests, the Minister said.
It will consider changes to the land release expression of interest process, the land release area selection process, and the competitive tender process.
Australian Energy Producers Chief Executive, Samantha McCulloch said the announcements demonstrated Queensland’s strong commitment to ensuring reliable and affordable energy for Queenslanders.
“We particularly welcome the announcement that tenders for nine parcels of land for gas and petroleum exploration are now open – a critical step in securing the future gas supply Australian households and industry will need,” Ms McCulloch said.
“Queensland is already doing the heavy lifting to keep the lights on and ensure reliable gas supply along the east coast of Australia.
“Queensland’s energy leadership continues to drive economic growth and underpin billions in royalties that fund essential services and commend the government’s proactive approach to unlocking the state’s natural gas potential and securing its energy future.
“The Queensland gas industry is powering the state’s economy, supporting jobs, regional communities and spending more than $80 billion with local businesses each year,” she said.
