WA Govt Buys Kimberley Land for Gas Hub

The State Government of Western Australia has completed the acquisition of land for a gas precinct near James Price Point to support the development of nearby gas fields.

Premier and State Development Minister Colin Barnett said securing the land was an important next step in ensuring the efficient development of offshore and onshore gas in the Kimberley.

“It has taken substantial effort to reach this point, with the support of traditional landholders,” Barnett said.

Under native title agreements reached with the Goolarabooloo Jabirr Jabirr native title claimant group in June 2011, the completion of the transaction has triggered a $10million economic development fund and $20million for indigenous housing.

“I thank the indigenous community for their courage in working with the State Government to secure this agreement and its associated social and economic benefits,” the Premier said.

Traditional owners will also have an ongoing role in managing the environmental, social and heritage outcomes of the precinct.

James Price Point was selected by the State Government in 2009 as the most suitable site from more than 40 locations, with the remote location minimising potential impacts on the community and the access to deep water close to the shore reducing the need for dredging and blasting.

“The Government is committed to delivering a project-ready site for the development of the region’s world-class gas resources,” Barnett said.

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LNG World News Staff, November 12, 2013