PACIA CEO Ms Samantha Read has expressed disappointment at Victorian Opposition leader Matthew Guy’s announcement yesterday that his party would maintain a moratorium on onshore gas until mid-2020 if elected.
“We are extremely frustrated by the stance taken by the Victorian Opposition toward onshore gas,” Ms Read said.
“Access to natural gas is vital in building a strong and competitive Victorian economy. For Victorian manufacturers, a reliable supply of domestic natural gas is critical not only for energy, but also as an essential and non-substitutable feedstock.”
Ms Read noted that these manufacturers use chemical processes in a unique way to convert the raw gas into a range of significantly value-added intermediate and finished products used throughout the economy.
“For example, Victorian chemical companies transform natural gas into the key ingredients needed to manufacture water treatment chemicals, biodiesel, packaging for fresh milk for domestic and export markets, and poly pipe that supplies natural gas to Victorian homes and businesses.
“Chemistry turns gas into jobs and exports. We have the opportunity to create even more Victorian jobs and exports using gas in chemistry. Currently there is unprecedented global demand for a broad range of high value-added products, which is being driven by growth in population, wealth and education. These same drivers of growth are increasing the demand for energy.
“Victoria should aspire to take advantage of these changes. This will drive investment, strengthen domestic supply chains and deliver economic growth. But this requires certainty in the responsible supply of gas to Victorian industry, as well as to landowners and the broader community.
“At the very least, the Victorian Government should remove conventional gas drilling from the current moratorium.
“Domestic gas supply is a national issue that requires coordinated leadership from State, Territory and Federal Governments. A strategy to develop gas safely that addresses risk and responds to opportunities would be welcomed.
“The COAG Energy Council provides a structured approach to bring on needed supplies of gas with rigorous environmental standards. We look forward to working with the Hon Josh Frydenberg MP in his new role as Minister for Resources, Energy and Northern Australia to support states providing a balanced approach to the opportunity that gas provides.”
Media contact: Krista Imberger – [email protected] or 0439 318 290
