While his corruption inquiry-facing predecessor Chris Hartcher consistently disappointed gas development proponents and opponents alike before he resigned in December, Roberts isn’t sitting on any fences.

According to The Australian, Roberts said the changing nature of east coast gas supply and demand meant it was no longer acceptable for NSW to rely on 60% of its gas coming from Victoria.

"I have been candid with the community on this and the community is starting to respond," he reportedly said.

"To be blunt, if either Victoria or South Australia's supply to NSW is disrupted due to any reason, NSW may need to implement emergency measures."

He reportedly lamented that past major disruptions forced Sydney’s two major oil refineries along with other large gas users to reduce production or use spare capacity.

Roberts also told the conference that NSW did not have the luxury to wait and see if interstate gas plants would be upgraded to meet future demand.

"We need to be in a ready position with greater NSW gas production when the gas we currently get from South Australia and Queensland starts flowing to the new export facilities," he reportedly said.

Roberts’ comments come after the state government signed an agreement to help fast-track Santos’ Narrabri coal seam gas project last week – news seen as a secret “betrayal” by the prolific activist group Lock the Gate Alliance.