CHANGES to the State Environmental Planning Policy (SEPP) will see the Hunter region join a list of 16 local government areas where gas exploration and production is prohibited.

The NSW Government has given effect to its Future of Gas Statement, with historic amendments to the State Environmental Planning Policy (SEPP), helping deliver a 77 per cent reduction of areas available for gas exploration in NSW.

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Deputy Premier and Minister responsible for Resources John Barilaro said the changes reflect the NSW Government’s commitment to support sustainable gas exploration in the state and provide certainty to industry and communities.

Mr Barilaro said gas exploration and production is now prohibited in 16 Local Government Areas across the Central West, Orana, New England North West and Hunter regions, with the exception of areas that could support the long-term future of the Narrabri Gas Project.

“Changes to the SEPP are a doubling down on the promise we made in July with the Future of Gas Statement – we are delivering on our promise of a balanced approach to gas in NSW,” Mr Barilaro said.

“The remaining active Petroleum Exploration Licences (PELs) will ensure the viability of the Narrabri Gas Project, which is a crucial project for regional economies and vital for manufacturers and heavy energy users while keeping power prices down.

“When we formed government in 2011, almost half of NSW was the subject of a gas exploration title or application.

Today’s changes provide certainty to industry and communities, cutting that to just 1.5 per cent of the State.”

By Marian SAMPSON