The Australian government has granted Major Project Status to the INPEX-led Bonaparte Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) project, marking a significant step forward in the nation’s efforts to advance a low-carbon future.
Australian Energy Producers Chief Executive Samantha McCulloch welcomed the announcement by Industry and Innovation Minister Tim Ayres, describing it as “welcome recognition of the essential role of CCS in driving large-scale emissions reductions in Australia and the region.”
“The granting of Major Project Status to the Bonaparte CCS project recognises CCS is a key technology in driving progress to net zero, and of Australia’s role as a global leader in this proven technology,” McCulloch said.
She highlighted Australia’s unique strengths in the field, stating: “Australia has a comparative advantage in CCS, with world-class geology, industry experience, and strong links with regional trading partners looking to collaborate on CCS.”
Australia is already home to two of the world’s largest operational CCS projects — Chevron’s Gorgon and Santos–Beach Energy’s Moomba — which together store the equivalent of taking one million cars off the road each year.
A recent Net Zero Australia study found that to achieve net zero emissions by 2050, the country will require between two and 20 Moomba-scale CCS projects to be built annually until mid-century.
“CCS is essential for achieving climate goals, with the International Energy Agency, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change and CSIRO all clear that there is no pathway to net zero without CCS,” McCulloch said.
She emphasised the technology’s importance for the manufacturing sector: “CCS is particularly important for manufacturing, because without it industries like fertiliser and chemical production, steel, bricks and cement will find it harder and more expensive to reach net zero.”
“CCS is delivering significant emissions reductions in Australia today, and the oil and gas sector stands ready to work with other industries to deliver real emissions reductions.”
Australian Energy Producers NT Director David Slama described the announcement as a major win for the Northern Territory.
“This proposed project has the potential to be a game-changer for the Northern Territory, bringing new jobs, investment, and emissions reduction opportunities,” Slama said.
“It underscores the importance of the oil and gas industry to the Territory’s long-term economic growth and energy security.”
The Bonaparte CCS project is now positioned to play a pivotal role in Australia’s transition to a net-zero economy, supporting both environmental and economic objectives.
