Minister for Resources and Water Keith Pitt says protestors attempting to disrupt gas exploration to the west of King Island should abide by the environmental umpire’s decision and let the crucial work proceed to guarantee future energy supplies to south-eastern Australia.

Minister Pitt said the company behind the project, ConocoPhillips, has received all required environmental approvals to carry out the work.

“The National Offshore Petroleum Safety and Environmental Management Authority (NOPSEMA) is regarded as a world-leading regulator of the industry and people can be assured any work will be carried out under the strictest guidelines,” Minister Pitt said.

“Activists disrupting the project are clearly driven by extreme ideology. They refuse to acknowledge the facts around the industry.

“NOPSEMA has ensured that gas exploration has occurred safely in this area for decades and operated alongside other industries, including tourism, with no harm to the environment,” Minister Pitt said.

“Bans on onshore gas exploration imposed by the Victorian Government have inevitably led to a decline in local energy supplies, which is now having an impact on the state’s business and manufacturing sectors.

“Gas exploration and production ensures homes and businesses can access affordable and secure energy into the future. The gas industry supports thousands of direct and indirect jobs in Victoria and across the east coast.

“Wildly false and misleading claims from the Greens and other activists about the impact of exploration should be seen for what they are – attempts to destroy our gas industry. The company should be allowed to proceed with its crucial work that will bring benefits to all Australians.”

Media contact: Minister Pitt's office 02 6277 7180