Federal Decision on North West Shelf Gas Project Delayed Until Post-Election

The Albanese government postpones its ruling on the contentious LNG extension to May 31, sparking political and industry reactions.

Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek has deferred the federal decision on Woodside's North West Shelf gas project extension until May 31, after the upcoming federal election.
The project, critical to Western Australia's economy, aims to extend operations until 2070 but faces opposition due to its projected 1.6 billion tonnes of CO₂ emissions and potential impact on Murujuga rock art.
Opposition Leader Peter Dutton has pledged to approve the project within 30 days if elected, raising concerns about legal challenges over claims of 'apprehended bias.'
Environmental groups argue the project jeopardizes global net-zero goals and threatens the 50,000-year-old Murujuga cultural heritage site.
Woodside Energy and industry stakeholders express frustration over the delay, citing the need for regulatory certainty to support jobs, taxes, and energy supply in the region.