Federal Government decision to stall decision on Woodside North West Shelf gas project slammed

Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek has again pushed back a crucial decision for Woodside’s $30 billion North West Shelf project, in a move described as an “absolute disgrace”.

The West Australian confirmed Ms Plibersek pushed back the deadline for Federal approvals until May 31, delaying the decision until after the upcoming Federal election, which is tipped to be called this weekend for early May.

The extension was signed on March 24, but was only posted online on Tuesday afternoon while the nation’s media were in Budget “lock-up” without internet access.

“It is an absolute disgrace and act of cynical political manipulation that the Albanese Labor Government has further delayed the decision on the extension of the North West Shelf gas hub until after the Federal election,” WA Liberal Senator Michaelia Cash said on Wednesday.

“To quietly push it out until May 31, on Budget day, beggars belief.

“Western Australians deserve to know the future of this vital project before the Federal election.”

Polls are predicting the likelihood of a minority government, with Labor having to deal with the Greens — who oppose the NWS project — to form government.

Woodside called the decision “disappointing” and had previously warned that a “protracted” process was impacting investment decisions.

“The further delay in approval of ongoing operations of the North West Shelf beyond 2030 is extremely disappointing,” a spokesman said.

“We look forward to certainty for ongoing operations, which can support thousands of direct and indirect jobs, billions of dollars in taxes and royalties and secure gas supply to Western Australia.”

A spokeswoman from Ms Plibersek’s office said more time was required.

“The Department has advised they require more time. All projects follow the process as set out by the law put in place by John Howard’s Government,” she said.

Opposition Leader Peter Dutton last week vowed to fast-track a decision within 30 days if he becomes Prime Minister.

But at least one traditional owner has backed the delay and urged Ms Plibersek to come to WA to “see the evidence” before making a decision.

“They need to come and see us and speak to the people of this country, because we have great concerns,” Ngarluma woman Samantha Walker said.

“How can you make a decision based on what you just know by paper? You need to come out and speak to the people. You need to see the evidence to understand what is happening.

“The country is being disturbed quicker than any of us can blink or breathe now.”

The State Government made its own decision to approve the extension to 2070 in mid-December, after a six-year process.

Woodside and partners in the North West Shelf want to keep the giant LNG hub operating until 2070. It will be the likely site to process gas from the huge Browse field, in what would be a $30 billion project.

A Woodside spokesperson previously said the “unexpectedly protracted duration of the approvals process” was impacting the investment decisions needed to back in near-term gas supply for WA.

“Mr Albanese has prioritised getting Greens’ preferences at the upcoming election over approving a project vital for WA jobs, our energy supply and our economy,” Ms Cash said.

“It is very clear that if Mr Albanese is re-elected, he will not approve this project because he will be in debt to the Australian Greens for their electoral support.”

The original statutory deadline for the Federal approval was February 28 but the department first extended it to March 31, blaming a delay receiving a State Government report on Indigenous rock art.