The Labor Government’s bans are set to be supported by the Coalition in a bid to support the farmers, the environment and food and fibre sector.
The move has been condemned by the Australian Petroleum Production and Exploration Association (APPEA) who say the ban is a political race to the bottom.
“Both sides of politics in Victoria have decided to ignore the facts about the gas industry to play short-term politics. Every independent, expert study into the industry has found that the industry is safe for the environment,”? said APPEA Chief Executive Dr Malcolm Roberts.
“The Government and the Opposition have decided not just to prohibit hydraulic fracturing, but to extend the blanket ban on conventional onshore gas exploration and development.
“Until recently, Victoria had a successful conventional onshore gas industry.
“The opportunity to create local jobs and local gas supply has been thrown away.”?
The Bill amends the Petroleum Act 1998 and the Mineral Resources (Sustainable Development) Act 1990 to implement the permanent ban.
Extending the moratorium to 2020 will allow for experts to carry out scientific, technical and environmental studies on the risks, benefits and impacts of onshore conventional gas.