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All Current and Past Media Releases
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Media Release - Minister's Office Sydney: 28 September 2006 NEW GAS PIPELINE TO DELIVER JOBS AND CUT GREENHOUSE A proposed $700 million gas pipeline from Queensland to the Hunter has been declared a critical infrastructure project by Planning Minister Frank Sartor.
Mr Sartor said the Hunter Energy project will create major economic benefits for NSW.
“This 850-kilometre natural gas pipeline will deliver new jobs and development to NSW and boost the State’s supply of greener energy,” Mr Sartor said.
“Almost 1000 construction and permanent jobs are expected to flow from the proposal.
“This new source of natural gas will help secure supplies to the North West, Hunter, Newcastle and Sydney.
“Construction is expected to lead to cheaper gas supplies for families and industry.
“It could also encourage gas exploration and production in the Gunnedah Basin, and stimulate regional development in centres such as Moree, Narrabri, Gunnedah, Tamworth, Muswellbrook, Singleton, Maitland and Newcastle.
“Declaring it critical infrastructure allows the Iemma Government to fast track this $700 million project and boost jobs and investment right along the route.”
The proposed pipeline would run from South Central Queensland to the Hunter, where it will feed into the existing Sydney to Newcastle pipeline at Hexham.
Mr Sartor said the project is regarded as the missing link in the East Coast Gas network from Queensland through to Victoria.
“The NSW Government has undertaken major reform of the State’s planning system to streamline the assessment process for major projects,” he said.
“These changes allow us to assess this vital project as critical infrastructure and prevent lengthy and costly delays.”
The proposal will be exhibited for a minimum of 30 days and all public submissions will be carefully considered as part of a comprehensive environmental assessment.
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