Media Releases

3 February 2023

STATEMENT

ZALI STEGGALL MP CALLS FOR GOVERNMENT TO CONFIRM PEP 11 IS DEAD IN THE WATER

News today that the Australian Government and Asset Energy have reached an agreement to end ongoing litigation, which opens the door for the state and federal governments to reconsider the application for the Petroleum Exploration Permit 11 (PEP 11) offshore oil and gas drilling licences off the NSW coastline between Manly and Newcastle, is of great concern and will be vigorously opposed.

“PEP 11 is dead in the water.  I call on the Resources Minister and the Prime Minister to assure the public that they will immediately reject any application to renew or extend PEP 11”.

PEP 11 covers 4,500 square kilometres of ocean, from Newcastle, through the Central Coast to Manly. This much-loved and beautiful marine environment is an area of rich biodiversity and is part of the whale migration path. This coastline is also home to internationally famous beaches and sustains significant local industry and tourism.

“The Warringah Community will not accept drilling for oil and gas off our beaches. There is widespread opposition for this project in communities across the east coast of Australia and we will vigorously oppose any attempts to revive PEP-11.

If needed, I will reintroduce my STOP PEP 11 Private Members Bill.”

Offshore oil and gas exploration and extraction through PEP11 would have dire consequences for NSW’s coastal businesses, communities, ecosystems and climate.  Any leak from PEP11 would devastate the local economy and environments.

Gas is a damaging fossil fuel with high impact on global warming due to the methane emitted.

If the Government is serious about honouring its commitment to Net Zero, it should immediately put an end to this, and reconfirm its commitment to Australia’s transition to renewables.

“This would be a win for the environment and a win for communities across our coastline”.

Ends