THE Limestone Coast’s burgeoning gas mining industry will be placed under the microscope as part of an unprecedented regional independent scientific study.
The State Government will fund a major scientific probe into the social and environmental impact of the gas industry in the Otway Basin.
This comes as the government fast-tracks new gas exploration areas in the South East and pours millions of dollars into the coffers of energy companies to fuel new production.
Today’s announcement also coincides with tonight’s world premiere at the Oatmill Cinema of a gas industry focused documentary, which has been produced by a regional environmentalist raising red flags about the sector.
The government will partner with the CSIRO, which it says is Australia’s foremost scientific research agency, to conduct in-depth research into the social and environmental impact of the gas industry in the onshore Otway Basin.
The CSIRO’s Gas Industry Social and Environmental Research Alliance, or GISERA, will conduct studies on the impacts on key issues concerning communities.
Mineral Resources and Energy Minister Tom Koutsantonis said the study would pave the way for independent scientific research.
“Partnering with the CSIRO provides South Australia with an opportunity to generate a wealth of independent research to gauge the impact of the gas industry on the state’s South East,” Mr Koutsantonis said.
“By working with the local community, GISERA will also be able to generate high-quality scientific research to better inform the development of the South Australian Oil and Gas Strategy,” Mr Koutsantonis said.
He said many concerns about water quality and the socio-economic impacts of the gas industry on neighbouring primary industries would be addressed by the research project.
CSIRO GISERA director Dr Damian Barrett said the research would be similar to other science projects undertaken in other gas-developing regions.
“GISERA has established a proven research program, governance structure and processes in Queensland and New South Wales to ensure independence, transparency and integrity,” Dr Barrett said.
“We will take that same approach to the research undertaken in South Australia.”
The project will also see the establishment of a South Australian Regional Research Advisory Committee.
This committee will include a majority of independent members to independently review research proposals on the range of science questions the community, government and local industry seek answers to in the South East.
“We look forward to working with the communities in the South East to develop a study program that will deepen our knowledge of the social and environmental impacts of the onshore gas industry in the Otway Basin,” Dr Barrett said.
Beach Energy South East regional manager and hydrogeologist Glenn Toogood yesterday welcomed the government’s announcement.
“Our position at Beach is that science always dictates our industry and how we operate,” Mr Toogood said.
Describing the CSIRO as a “reputable brand”, he said science was critical for the industry to move forward.
“We always welcome any strong scientific study,” Mr Toogood said.
He said the establishment of an advisory committee ensured independence.
