Media Release: Oil and gas industry thanks outgoing WA Minister Bill Johnston

Western Australia’s oil and gas sector thanks outgoing Minister for Mines and Petroleum; Energy; Hydrogen Industry; Industrial Relations the Hon Bill Johnston MLA, for his strong support and commitment to the industry.

Mr Johnston announced today he was stepping down from cabinet and will not contest the 2025 State Election. He has served as Mines and Petroleum Minister since 2017 and Energy Minister since 2018.

Australian Energy Producers WA Director Caroline Cherry said Mr Johnston leaves a strong legacy, overseeing record resources industry exports which have kept Western Australia as the economic powerhouse of the nation.

“Mr Johnston has been a strong advocate for the oil and gas sector – he understands the industry, its priorities and strong and essential role in delivering wide-ranging benefits to the state,” Ms Cherry said.

“This approach has contributed significantly to the prosperity and development of the Western Australian resources sector over the past six years.”

“Mr Johnston has driven several important initiatives to help secure the state’s prosperity as it transforms from a resources powerhouse to becoming a decarbonisation powerhouse, seizing the economic opportunities of net zero while lowering emissions.”

“In particular, yesterday’s introduction of legislation into the Western Australia Parliament to enable carbon capture and storage (CCS) – a key technology on the path to net zero.”

“WA’s oil and gas industry looks forward to continuing to work with Premier Roger Cook, and Mr Johnston’s replacement, to strengthen the state’s economy and accelerate the energy system transformation to net zero.”

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