5.2
Progress
25% Complete.
Government approval of policy/process development.
That the Government:
- implements a mandatory program for regular monitoring by gas companies of decommissioned onshore shale gas wells (including exploration wells), with the results from the monitoring to be publicly reported in real-time. If the performance of a decommissioned well is determined to be acceptable to the regulator then the gas company may apply for relinquishment of the well to the Government; and
- implements a program for the ongoing monitoring of all orphan wells.
Target completion date
Stage 3
To be completed by end December 2021.
Reform area
Ensuring accountable industry practice
Project action
Monitoring gas companies and their operations
Lead agency
Department of Industry, Tourism and Trade
Action item update
Implementation progress
The Northern Territory Government has commissioned CSIRO/GISERA to evaluate options for the long-term monitoring of decommissioned wells in the NT. Findings will inform a process for well relinquishment and an ongoing monitoring program.
The program will be made enforceable via legislation.