Albanese's Firm Stance on Woodside's North West Shelf Extension Amid Growing Pressure

Prime Minister's Cautious Approach

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese recently reaffirmed that the decision regarding Woodside's North West Shelf extension will occur strictly "in accordance with the law". His comments came during a brief stop in Western Australia on his way to Indonesia, where he responded to questions surrounding the contentious plans to prolong operations at the North West Shelf facility for an additional 50 years.

During the visit, Albanese dismissed calls for the extension decision to be the inaugural task of the newly appointed Environment Minister, Murray Watt. He emphasized the importance of following the established legal framework while alluding to the extensive consideration the state government had already undertaken on this matter. Albanese remarked, "The state government considered it over a long period of time. This is an issue that’s relevant for the 2030s, which is when [the operational extension] is due to commence."

Environmental Concerns and Delays

Woodside secured state environmental approval in December of the previous year. However, the project has now been handed over to the Commonwealth for a detailed assessment concerning its potential effects on the Murujuga rock art, an area of significant cultural heritage. Delays in obtaining necessary documentation from state authorities are pushing decision deadlines further back.

In mid-March, environmental advocacy groups, including Greenpeace and the Conservation Council of WA, pressed for a holistic review of Woodside's Burrup Hub projects, contributing to the extended deadline now set for May 31. This push reflects increasing concerns about the environmental implications of large-scale industrial activities on Indigenous heritage sites.

Community Response and State Pressure

While the Albanese government has remained firm in its adherence to due process, the state government under Premier Roger Cook has intensified its lobbying efforts to expedite federal decision-making. This reflects the growing urgency within the Western Australian political landscape, as stakeholders in the gas industry advocate for the extension to sustain energy production and economic activity in the region.

Albanese’s comments and the federal government's position highlight the tension between environmental stewardship and economic development, an issue that is likely to remain a focal point in Australian politics as the country navigates its energy future.

Headlines Elsewhere

• Olympic cyclist Rohan Dennis has received a suspended sentence following the tragic accident that claimed the life of his wife, Melissa Hoskins.
• A man has been charged with multiple offenses after an alleged assault on a woman in Broome.
• The WA Police Union is calling for a life sentence for Reagan Chown following his conviction for the manslaughter of Constable Anthony Woods.

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