THE state government has taken a contentious step towards opening up areas of the South West, including Donnybrook, to exploration for shale gas and oil.
An applicant has been chosen for a permit to explore an area of the South West between Donnybrook, Capel and Bunbury.
Although an applicant has been chosen, a permit has not yet been granted. Areas that could be explored under the permit surround Donnybrook, Capel, Peppermint Grove Beach, Stratham, Boyanup, Dardanup and the outskirts of Bunbury.
Australian Greens Senator Rachel Siewert said it should serve as a huge alarm signal that the Barnett Government had chosen an applicant for a permit to explore the South West region for shale gas and oil.
“This is about getting fracking going in the South West,” she said.
Fracking is the highly controversial process of extracting shale gas by directing a high pressure water mixture deep underground to release the gas.
“For the State Government to downplay potential fracking in the region whilst they are lining up permits for exploration of unconventional gas is offensive and I’m sure will receive immediate backlash from the community,” Senator Siewart said.
“The South West is enjoyed for its beautiful environment and as a prime agricultural and tourism region; these all come under threat with this prospect of fracking in the future. These areas shouldn’t come under threat by Barnett’s big business mates,” she said.
"Fracking and drilling poses a significant threat, with potential for land disturbance and a significant risk of contamination and disruption of groundwater systems.”
WA Mines and Petroleum Minister Bill Marmion said the State Government was committed to protecting water supplies, farming land, tourism assets and the environment.
“To raise the spectre of thousands of drilling rigs dotting the South West is alarmist and wrong. If a permit is eventually granted, it will not automatically allow exploration. A permit only gives the company the right to apply for exploration, triggering a rigorous and lengthy process of water, environment, health and safety assessments,” he said.
“Bear in mind there were previously exploration titles over this land for more than 30 years. If, and it is a big “if”, the company wants to drill an exploratory well, it is years away.”
Mr Marmion said there was no automatic right of access.
“By law, petroleum companies have to secure written consent from farmers and land owners to carry out activities on their land. This consent can include agreements around compensation,” he said.
“The State Government is committed to regulation that reflects community values and expectations to protect the environment. We are embracing the science, not ignoring it, and the science says the gas industry is overwhelmingly safe.”
Senator Siewart said she encouraged people to let their representatives know immediately that this was not what they wanted for the South West now or in the future.
"The Greens oppose fracking given its potential to harm the environment, agriculture, water sources, community and cultural values. I urge the WA Government not to ignore the science, environmental impacts and wishes of the community when it comes to making decisions about resource development in the South West region,” she said.