The Queensland government has appointed preferred tenderers for new gas exploration areas.
The newly released exploration acreage in the Cooper-Eromanga Basin has drawn strong industry interest, reflecting the basin’s reputation as one of Australia’s most productive sources of gas and liquids.
The move is expected to reinforce Queensland’s long-term energy security and encourage fresh investment across the supply chain.
Australian Energy Producers Queensland Director Keld Knudsen said the government’s action is a positive step for both industry and consumers, with new exploration essential for maintaining strong gas supply and keeping prices in check.
“Bringing new exploration opportunities to market is critical to securing the next generation of gas supply and maintaining Queensland’s role as a national energy powerhouse,” Knudsen said.
According to Mr Knudsen, ensuring a steady pipeline of new development is key to managing future demand and supporting industrial productivity across the state.
“New supply is the most effective and sustainable way to put downward pressure on energy prices, support industrial growth and ensure households and businesses continue to have access to reliable and affordable energy,” he said.
Queensland’s gas sector continues to play a pivotal role in powering the state’s electricity system, fuelling its manufacturing base, and sustaining regional economies.
Thousands of jobs and billions of dollars in annual economic activity are tied to ongoing exploration and production across Queensland’s energy regions.
Knudsen said the latest exploration initiative will have wide-reaching benefits beyond energy markets, laying the foundations for regional growth and employment.
“Importantly, it’s this sort of investment into regional Queensland that creates new jobs, supports local businesses and strengthens regional communities,” he said.
Australian Energy Producers also commended the Queensland government for its efforts to modernise and streamline the land release framework.
The organisation said improvements to the approvals process would help maintain investor confidence and ensure responsible development proceeds without unnecessary delays.
“A faster, clearer and more predictable approvals framework will help accelerate responsible development and ensure Queensland remains an attractive destination for energy investment,” Knudsen concluded.
The Cooper-Eromanga Basin, straddling southwestern Queensland and northeastern South Australia, has long been a pillar of Australia’s natural gas production.
Renewed exploration interest in the region reflects both the necessity of replenishing reserves and the appetite for stable, long-term energy projects.
As Australia faces a tightening gas supply outlook amid rising domestic and export demand, Queensland’s proactive approach to expanding its exploration footprint is being seen as a model for other jurisdictions.
By combining new acreage releases with regulatory clarity, the state aims to balance its resource development goals with environmental and community expectations.
Together, these measures underline Queensland’s position as a leading force in Australia’s energy future — one that continues to attract investment, create regional opportunities, and deliver reliable energy for households and industries alike.