A decision to allow fracking within the Northern Territory under tighter regulatory conditions has been met with deep concern by those most likely to be impacted by the development of an unconventional gas industry.
Chief Minister Michael Gunner announced yesterday his Government would lift its fracking moratorium , subject to all 135 recommendations of the independent fracking inquiry being implemented.
The decision would allow fracking to occur within 51% of the Northern Territory, including in the Beetaloo Basin, located between the remote towns of Mataranka and Elliott.
Roper Gulf Mayor and Mataranka resident Judy MacFarlane says the move is highly concerning for the majority of people who live within the area and surrounding districts.
“I’m disappointed and saddened by the decision because many locals still have strong doubts about how fracking will impact the region, particularly our water and existing industries,” she said.
“I understand there are mixed views about fracking locally because the industry could deliver significant economic benefits to our communities. But at what cost will those benefits come?
“The Northern Territory Government has yet to convince us the industry can proceed safely, so I expect this decision will cause a great deal of anxiety across our region.”
Elected members from the Roper Gulf region have previously voiced their opposition to fracking, voting unanimously against the moratorium being lifted at the last Council meeting in February.
CEO Michael Berto says despite remaining firm on that position, Council would seek greater engagement with Government and industry on gas development within the region.
“Many locals remain uncertain or unconvinced about how our natural and cultural resources will be protected from fracking, and that needs to be more thoroughly demonstrated to them,” he said.
“The Northern Territory has a poor track record when it comes to resource development, so understandably doubt remains about how well fracking will be managed even with the inquiry recommendations in place.
“At this point I think we need to accept fracking is going ahead, but I want assurances our Council and communities will be involved in the development of the implementation plan over the coming months.
“I also want to see strong representation from our region on the Government’s proposed community and industry reference group, to ensure the interests of our constituents are properly represented.
“There’s still scope for us to influence how this industry develops within our region and we need to take-up that opportunity.”