First gas from the Beetaloo Basin today marks a major milestone for Australia’s energy security and the Northern Territory economy.
The start of production from Tamboran’s Shenandoah South development is the culmination of years of exploration, investment and rigorous assessment and provides a glimpse of what larger-scale development of the basin could deliver.
Australian Energy Producers Chief Executive Samantha McCulloch said the Beetaloo was a globally significant resource that had the potential to attract billions of dollars of investment, create thousands of jobs and generate new opportunities for local businesses, contractors and regional communities.
“First gas is an exciting milestone as the Beetaloo moves from potential to production,” Ms McCulloch said.
“It demonstrates what is possible when governments, industry and communities work together to unlock Australia’s abundant energy resources.”
"Australia will need new sources of gas supply to meet future demand and ensure Australian households, manufacturers and businesses have reliable and affordable energy.
“The Beetaloo is ideally placed to help meet those needs while becoming another major pillar of the Territory’s economy.”
Natural gas already provides more than 80 per cent of the Northern Territory’s electricity, and the industry contributes around $2.3 billion to the local economy and supports around 3500 jobs.
Further development of the Beetaloo could build on that foundation, including by supporting emerging industries such as data centres and critical minerals processing, while being an important new source of gas supply for Australia’s east coast market.
Realising that potential will require continued investment, efficient approvals and stable policy settings that provide confidence for projects requiring significant capital over many years.
“The Northern Territory Government deserves credit for recognising the opportunity presented by the Beetaloo and working to streamline approvals and reduce unnecessary red tape while maintaining strong environmental standards,” Ms McCulloch said.
“The opportunity now is to build on this momentum and attract the investment needed to unlock the full economic and energy security potential of the Beetaloo for the Territory and Australia.”
