The NSW Government has introduced further coal seam gas (CSG) reforms which are claimed to be the most strict in the nation.
The reforms will see safeguards in place for approximately 5.3 million hectares of the State’s homes and high quality farmland.
“The NSW Government has delivered the strictest regulations around CSG activity in the country," said
Deputy Premier Andrew Stoner.
Mr Stoner, Minister for Planning and Infrastructure Brad Hazzard and Minister for Resources and Energy Anthony Roberts made the announcement, saying the reforms struck the right balance for communities and industry.
“Today marks a significant milestone in this Government’s commitment to balance the energy needs of the State and the need to support our vital agricultural industry,” Mr Stoner said.
“Coal seam gas exclusion zones are now in force for an estimated 95 per cent of dwellings covered by current petroleum licences and tough regulations are also now in place for NSW’s most valuable agricultural land.
“We’ve consulted with the community to identify millions of hectares of biophysical strategic agricultural land and critical industry clusters (CIC) and today we have acted to ensure that this important land is formally recognised and safeguarded."
