The coal seam gas (CSG) industry in Queensland and New South Wales is growing rapidly and the debate over this issue in the community is heating up.
What is Coal Seam Gas?
Natural gas in coal, known as coal seam gas, coal seam methane, or coal bed methane, occurs when the coal is formed deep underground by a process of heating and compressing plant matter. The gas is trapped in the coal in tiny fractures, known as seams or cleats, typically 300-600 metres underground. It is held in place by water pressure and is extracted via wells which are drilled through the coal seams. Natural gas is released from the coal when the water is pumped out. It is then processed to remove water and piped to compression plants for injection into gas transmission pipelines.
The Fiery Debate About the Coal Seam Gas Industry
Everyone knows supporters believe the coal seam gas industry will supply natural gas for the growing Australian market. In fact, they believe it will facilitate the establishment of major export liquefied natural gas industries which will provide the basis for employment and infrastructure investment.
On the other hand, grave concerns have been voiced due to the social, environmental and economic impacts which may flow from the CSG industry. One group who is very active in opposing CSG development is the Lock the Gate Campaign.
Will it Lead to Regulatory Reform?
A Senate inquiry is currently investigating the management of the Murray Darling Basin which in part will assess the impacts of CSG mining in both QLD and NSW. Including examination of the economic, social and environmental impacts of mining CSG on the sustainability of water aquifers and future water licensing arrangements, the property rights and values of landholders, prime agricultural land and other related matters. It’s
no secret that it’s hoped this inquiry may lead to regulatory reform.
How the Coal Seam Gas Industry Impacts You
If you fear the impacts of CSG in your community or backyard, you are not alone. We have been contacted by many people already who are worried about loss of income, diminished property values, decreasing groundwater supplies and licensing issues associated with organic agriculture.
If you are suffering financial loss associated with your business or property caused by the CSG industry, please contact us today on 13 11 99.
We are currently investigating this issue and will provide advice in relation to potential legal action to recover financial losses.
Alternatively, if you need advice on how to launch an objection to the expansion or establishment of the CSG industry or push for regulatory reform, please sign up to our knowledge centre.
Hi,
i too would like to voice my concern about coal seam gas “fracking” in nsw, qld and australia in general. I’m not worried about recovering financial losses (though it would be economically wasteful to degrade these fertile areas, when there is already a global food shortage), as much as losing the irreplaceable landscape and wildlife of this beautiful place, which many people around the world feel a strong spiritual connection to. It would be more profitable to keep the gorgeous tourist destinations and lush farmland that already exists there.
Thankyou for registering my deep concern about this issue