As Australia positions itself for a lower-emissions future, Ventia says the nation’s gas and critical minerals sectors will play an essential role—and it’s gearing up to meet the growing demand.
Kyle Koziol, Executive General Manager at Ventia, one of Australia’s largest onshore drilling and well servicing companies, said the outlook for gas remains strong despite growing momentum in renewables.
“Gas is going to continue to play a big part in how we transition to a lower emissions future,” Koziol said.
“The Australian Government’s future gas strategy acknowledges that new sources of supply will be needed to meet demand during the transition—and that gas must remain affordable for Australian users, including manufacturers.”
Koziol noted that while technical and regulatory challenges remain, confidence in the market will be key to unlocking investment.
He added that service providers like Ventia are investing in new equipment and capabilities to meet the dual challenge of securing new supply while also helping operators reduce emissions.
Ventia currently operates 35 rigs and employs more than 700 people across its drilling and well servicing division.
Luke Smith, General Manager of Operations at Ventia, said operators are under pressure to decarbonise while maintaining output.
“They’re looking for partners that can deliver technical insight, reduce emissions, and improve cost performance,” he said.
Ventia has already introduced several efficiency measures, including optimising power generation at remote sites to reduce diesel use, and piloting large-scale batteries for energy storage.
“The economics are more challenging today,but we want to be ready with the technical capability as costs come down,” Smith said.
At the same time, safety remains paramount. “We’re assessing every change for risk and ensuring the right controls are in place,” Smith said.
“We’re also using data more effectively to drive operational improvements.”
Beyond gas, Ventia is also preparing for growth in Australia’s minerals sector, particularly as demand surges for copper and other critical materials needed for renewable energy, electric vehicles, and digital infrastructure.
“Copper is a key enabler of the energy transition,” Koziol said.
“And we expect strong long-term demand for other minerals like iron ore.”
With nearly two decades of experience supporting operations at Olympic Dam, Ventia is expanding its rig fleet in South Australia to position itself for future growth in the region.
“We’re proud to be part of the solution,” Koziol said.
“And we’re ready to support Australia’s energy and minerals future—whatever shape that takes.”
For more information on Ventia’s energy and minerals capabilities, visit ventia.com.
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