New safety and environmental regulations for the petroleum and geothermal industries in Western Australia come into effect this month.

“While WA’s natural gas from shale and tight rocks industry is in the early stages of exploration, with any significant commercial production predicted to be about five to ten years away, it is important that a robust regulatory framework is in place,” says Department of Mines and Petroleum Executive Director of Petroleum Division, Jeff Haworth.

“The State Government understands community concerns associated with hydraulic fracturing and strengthening regulations and ensuring best practices are implemented is critical to addressing these concerns.”

The DMP assesses applications before drilling operations are approved to make sure it runs in accordance with good oil field practices.

“The department will ensure any future projects are assessed on a site-by-site, project-by-project basis with safety and environment auditors conducting inspections to check compliance with safety and environmental standards,” said Mr Haworth.

He said companies would not gain approvals if they did not comply with requirements.

“All companies are required to submit a list of all chemicals to be used in all well operations,” Mr Haworth said.

“This information is available on DMP website. WA is the only jurisdiction in Australia requiring full public disclosure of chemicals.

“With the new regulations now in place, DMP is confident it can strictly regulate a shale and tight gas industry without compromising the environment or safety to successfully maximise possible future economic opportunities for all Western Australians.”