An experienced land use expert has found that development of natural gas resources in the Northern Territory can and should be delivered in harmony with the environment and in collaboration with pastoral, farming and tourism industries.
In a video produced by the Australian Petroleum Production and Exploration Association (APPEA), David Armstrong, who has worked with the pastoral and resources industries over many years, said a powerful mutually-beneficial partnership is being formed among the industries to the benefit of all Territorians, especially those in regional areas.
Mr Armstrong said proposed investment by onshore gas companies would mean improved transport, communications and other services in remote and regional areas.
However, Mr Armstrong said the gas industry can only develop in regional areas if it contributes to the communities which host the activity, and if water resources and the broader environment are protected.
Mr Armstrong said landholders often had concerns about how the gas industry would co-exist on their land, and great effort was made to ensure all questions were addressed.
“The industry doesn’t proceed without ensuring those concerns are satisfied,” Mr Armstrong said.
Mr Armstrong also calls for a balanced public discussion of the industry and respect for all points of view.
“I respect the fact that there are some pastoralists who don’t want this on their land, but I think respect needs to be afforded to the pastoralists who are happy for it,” Mr Armstrong said.
“If this industry is allowed to progress, there’s upwards of 6000 jobs that will come into the Northern Territory.”
Mr Armstrong said investment will also “bring in development of bitumen roads, of mobile phone coverage, of better internet service, and power to get on the grid.”