The council formed during February this year was created to give a consistent and focussed voice to coal seam gas industry participants. The council provides a forum for cooperation between what seems often to be opposing parties, the coal and petroleum industries.

A Council spokesperson said a number of coal companies were developing commercial CSG projects and being part of the Council would give them access to ideas and technology in a rapidly growing and changing industry.

The council has in excess of 30 members, including AGL, Anglo Coal Australia, Arrow Energy, BHP Billiton, CH4, Queensland Gas Company, Strike Oil, Tipperary Oil and Gas Australia, and Tri Star Petroleum.

One of the main functions of the council is to play a key role in communicating with government on issues, policies and legalisation relating to the coal seam gas industry. This recently included presenting submissions on draft legislation dealing with coal seam gas released by the Queensland government during July this year.

The draft legislation was proposed to address conflict that may arise when coal and coal seam gas exploration and production activities occur in the same area.

The prospective bill was a reaction to increasing coal seam gas industry activity in Queensland. The state’s CSG production is currently at 25 PJ per year representing about 25% of Queensland natural gas supply. Reserves of proven and probable coal seam gas in Queensland are in excess of 1,300 PJ. These reserves are expected to increase significantly in what is a very young industry. This represents the equivalent of current usage demand for 13 years in Queensland.

The council also met with the Minister for Natural Resources and Mines and Minister for Innovation in July and August this year to discuss industry issues. This was a major step in the council becoming recognised as the leading industrial body representing the coal seam gas industry.

For more information e-mail the secretary at m.klapper@hopgoodganim.com.au or phone 07 3024 0325.