Public consultation is now open on 10 potential areas to be released for offshore petroleum exploration.

Minister for Resources and Water Keith Pitt said ongoing petroleum exploration is critical to ensure Australians have access to reliable and affordable energy.

“The oil and gas sector will play a pivotal role in our domestic energy needs as well as being a key export industry generating billions of dollars in investment and providing thousands of jobs,” Minister Pitt said.

The 10 areas to be potentially included in the 2022 offshore petroleum exploration acreage release are located offshore from Western Australia, Victoria, the Territory of Ashmore and Cartier Islands, and the Northern Territory. 

Minister Pitt said consultation will inform a decision to release an area for bidding. Submissions will also assist potential explorers understand factors they may need to consider when applying for an area or when planning exploration.

“Offshore petroleum acreage release remains a key mechanism to attract investment in our petroleum industry,” Minister Pitt said.

Submissions can be made via the Consultation Hub until 14 December 2021.

To keep up to date with the latest information on the acreage release, please subscribe to the Australian Petroleum News (APN) newsletter published by the Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources.

Media contact: Minister Pitt's office 02 6277 7180