DomGas Alliance launches campaign to keep WA gas in WA
This morning the DomGas Alliance launched the "Keep WA Gas in WA" campaign, highlighting the critical importance of retaining Western Australia's onshore gas resources within the state. With 400,000 jobs reliant on a stable and affordable domestic gas supply, the campaign emphasises the significant economic value of the state's longstanding domestic gas policy.
This initiative comes at a crucial time as the State Government is set to conclude its inquiry into the domestic gas reservation policy and review the onshore gas export ban. The campaign underscores that the state's gas resources should not be taken for granted and advocates for the continuation of policies that have historically ensured a secure and affordable gas supply for Western Australians.
The current policy, which includes an onshore gas export ban and a requirement for offshore LNG producers to supply 15% of their gas exports to the domestic market, has been instrumental in supporting local manufacturing jobs and generating substantial economic activity within WA. The DomGas Alliance argues that lifting the onshore export ban would not necessarily increase domestic supply, citing strong local demand and a proven track record of co-investment in new projects.
The unique geological characteristics of the Perth Basin further complicate the potential for aggregating sufficient export volumes within the necessary timeframes. Richard Harris, spokesperson for the DomGas Alliance, pointed out the lessons from the east coast, emphasizing the adverse consequences that permitting onshore gas exports could have on the state.
A recent poll commissioned by the Alliance revealed overwhelming public support, with 87% of Western Australians favoring the retention of current policies to ensure affordable gas prices and the protection of local jobs.
The DomGas Alliance's campaign is a call to action for policymakers to uphold and enforce the existing domestic gas policy, ensuring that WA's gas resources remain within the state.
The message from the campaign is clear: Western Australians want their gas to stay in WA to secure the state's economic future.