Petroleum and gas exploration info for landholders

Clear and concise information is now available to landholders with regard to their rights in a surging coal seam gas industry, Mines and Energy Minister Geoff Wilson said today.

A special State Government taskforce has also been set up to address concerns and questions from landholders.

“Coal seam gas is helping chart the way to a cleaner, greener energy future for Queensland,” Mr Wilson said.

“But some landholders may be unaware of their rights when petroleum and gas explorers come knocking on their door.”

Mr Wilson said the latest information, written in plain language, was now available from the Department of Mines and Energy website www.dme.qld.gov.au.

“The information sheets describe the rights and obligations of landowners and occupiers when petroleum and gas explorers want to enter their land,” Mr Wilson said.

“The State Government is aware the current and enormous increase in exploration for petroleum and coal seam gas in Queensland is placing increased pressure on landowners and occupiers for access to their land for exploration.

“Readily accessible information is a key to reducing the uncertainty around entry to land,” he said.

The information sheets include exploration activities that may be conducted, the requirements an explorer must meet before entering any land and the compensation principles for land owners and occupiers.

They also contain frequently asked question and answers.

Mr Wilson said he had convened a working party of the peak bodies of the rural and mining and petroleum groups to discuss the issues arising from the exploration boom.

“We anticipate many of the issues can be resolved in this forum, however in the meantime this online information may be helpful for landholders,” he said.

Media contact: Minister’s office 3224 7332.