If initial exploration is successful, up to $85 million could flow into the economy, contributing to further investment in the region and new local jobs. The benefits will be magnified if the new exploration leads to additional gas supply.

Exploration involves geological studies to search for offshore gas deposits, including a range of desktop and field activities which are subject to strict environmental controls.

These offshore gas resources can be accessed from onshore without any disturbance of the marine environment.

Beach Energy and Bridgeport Energy are also required to work closely with the commercial fishing industry, local communities and government bodies along the south-west coast as they conduct their exploration programs.

The new permits are on the doorstep of an existing offshore gas industry including Beach Energy’s existing Halladale-Speculant facility and their highly promising Enterprise exploration project. The area also hosts Lochard Energy’s Iona Gas Plant, which is integral to ensure consistent and reliable supply during the colder months.

The new exploration permits are further good news for local jobs and investment in the south-west following the recent confirmation of the restart of the onshore conventional gas industry in 2021.

The Victorian Gas Program has recently identified potentially significant onshore conventional gas resources particularly in the Otway Basin. Onshore unconventional gas including fracking is permanently banned in Victoria.

Any new gas found will be prioritised for domestic use, boosting the state’s energy supply and security.

Gas will continue to play an important role in supporting Victoria’s transition to a cleaner energy future, in line with the Government’s commitment to net zero emissions by 2050.