With PEP 11 back in the spotlight, the NSW Government has vowed to legislate its existing policy to prevent offshore coal, gas, mineral and petroleum mining and exploration in NSW waters if re-elected in March.
The Government has also pledged to ramp up its calls for the Federal Government to prevent offshore mining in neighbouring Commonwealth waters.
The PEP-11 permit for off-shore gas exploration covers an 8,200 square metre area stretching from Newcastle to Wollongong, with the Central Coast a likely drilling site.
A refusal to renew the controversial permit was issued by former Prime Minister Scott Morrison in the lead-up to last year’s Federal election, but Asset Energy appealed the decision in Federal Court after it was revealed Morrison has taken on a number of extra portfolios in 2020 and 2021, including Resources.
Earlier this month the new Federal Government agreed to end the Federal Court challenge, meaning the licence renewal application will once more have to be considered by the Joint Authority, which comprises NSW and Federal Government Ministers.
Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch said the State Government has been consistently opposed to offshore mining due to grave concerns about the possible impact on the environment.
“We will always stand up for the environment and our communities that care deeply about our pristine coastline, and the Federal Government must give the community certainty in their waters, as we will do in ours,” he said.
“The NSW Government’s existing Offshore Exploration and Mining Policy sets out a responsible and balanced approach to the development of the State’s geological resources.
“(This) announcement cements our opposition to offshore gas exploration and mining, and these new laws will make it crystal clear to anyone looking to drill for gas in NSW waters that they need not apply.”
To help tackle beach erosion, the NSW Government will still consider offshore mineral exploration or mining in NSW waters for beach nourishment where a clear public benefit can be demonstrated.
Greenpeace Australia Pacific has applauded the announcement, saying it would be a win for the oceans and help to protect important animals and ecosystems off the NSW coastline.
Shadow Minister for the Central Coast David Harris said NSW Labor has always opposed PEP 11.
“We are only in this mess because (former Prime Minister) Scott Morrison didn’t follow the correct process,” he said.
“This is essentially a Commonwealth issue and Labor will continue to oppose any attempt to do offshore gas or mining.
“People should remember that the Liberal Party promised ‘no ifs no buts’ to legislate against the Wallarah 2 Coal Mine proposal only to do a massive backflip after that election resulting in that mine being approved in our water catchment valleys.”
Terry Collins