The Northern Territory gas industry has welcomed new legislation aimed at curbing what it calls “activist lawfare”, a move expected to boost investment and energy security in the region.
The Petroleum, Planning and Water Legislation Amendment Bill 2025, set to be introduced in Parliament this week, has been hailed as a significant step towards streamlining approval processes for critical gas projects.
Australian Energy Producers NT Director David Slama expressed strong support for the Territory government’s decisive action.
“We commend the Territory government for moving decisively to stamp out activist lawfare putting at risk economic and energy security for Territorians,” Slama stated.
The bill is designed to prevent activist groups from using the legal system to delay gas projects, which the industry claims has deterred much-needed investment in the Territory.
Slama argued that these delays have undermined the NT’s attractiveness as a place to do business and invest, potentially jeopardising economic and energy security.
A key aspect of the new legislation is the removal of the Merits Review process, which Slama described as being exploited by activists.
“Removing the Merits Review process is a significant step towards streamlining approval processes to enable new gas supply to be brought online sooner,” he explained.
The gas industry’s support for this legislation comes at a time when cost-of-living pressures are a significant concern for many Australians.
Slama emphasised the need to remove barriers to new gas supply to ensure Territorians continue to have access to reliable and affordable energy.
As the bill moves through Parliament, it is expected to face scrutiny from environmental groups and other stakeholders.
However, the gas industry remains firm in its belief that this legislation is crucial for expediting project delivery, improving environmental outcomes, and attracting investment essential for the NT’s long-term energy security and economic prosperity.
