Ruby gas project a gem for regional Queensland jobs

The Palaszczuk Government has welcomed announcement of QGC’s new program for gas field development in the State's Surat region.

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said the project would secure 350 new and existing jobs during the 16 month peak construction, and sustain QGC’s gas production as older wells come off peak production. 

“The Ruby Project is a new program of gas field development that supply both domestic and LNG markets,” the Minister said.

Minister for Natural Resources Dr Anthony Lynham said ongoing investment in Queensland’s $70 billion CSG-LNG industry shows the policy settings are right.

“This is good news for gas supplies and jobs in Queensland,” Dr Lynham said.

Shell’s Executive Vice President for Australia and New Zealand Andrew Smith said:  “This is the next significant milestone in the QGC project and a further vote of confidence in Queensland’s onshore gas industry. We are proud to be investing in regional Queensland, creating jobs and securing gas supply for domestic and export customers into the future.”

The Premier said over the last two years, we have stabilised electricity prices from the 43% increases under the previous government.

“Over the same period, we have also set the policy for an energy mix for affordable, secure and sustainable electricity supplies for all Queenslanders,” she said.

“Where other States have privatised their electricity generation and closed coal-fired power generation, we have maintained our fleet.

“Where other States have an aversion to renewable energy, we have welcomed investment – with a current pipeline of $2 billion and 1900 construction jobs.

“Where other States have moratoriums on gas development, we have a rigorous policy that has promoted the sustainable development of the LNG industry.

“While the Turnbull Government ties itself in knots to pick political fights on energy policy, Queensland is leading the way.”

The preliminary report of the Turnbull Government’s Chief Scientist Dr Alan Finkel identified – “restrictions on onshore exploration and development in some states and territories” was a factor in tightening the supply of gas. Dr Finkel concluded that: “Tighter has supply translates to higher gas prices”.

Studies have shown that for every local person working directly in the CSG industry, a further three new indirect jobs are created within the Surat region.

Media contact: Kirby Anderson 0417 263 791