Why is Australia extending its biggest gas project to 2070?

Australia’s decision to extend the North West Shelf gas project to 2070 has triggered fresh debate about fossil fuel dependence, climate policy, and cultural heritage protection.

The extension arrived just as Australia prepares to announce new emission reduction targets, spanning four more decades for one of the country’s largest gas ventures.

Maintaining reliable energy for decades has been a government priority, but Australia’s per capita emissions rank among the world’s highest, and climate advocates remain alarmed at continued fossil fuel reliance.

What prompted the extension for the North West Shelf?

The North West Shelf, operated by Woodside Energy, supplies a significant proportion of Australia’s domestic and exported natural gas. Its license was due to expire in 2030, but the federal government approved a 40-year extension to ensure long-term energy supply and economic stability.

Industry supporters say extending the project protects jobs and revenue for Western Australia while providing energy security during uncertain global market conditions. Critics, however, question whether more gas is needed as Australia pursues renewable targets.

Did you know?
Murujuga in Western Australia is home to some of the world’s oldest rock art, dating back over 60,000 years, and now receives extra legal protections.

What environmental safeguards are in place?

The new extension comes with 48 strict conditions, including a legal requirement for Woodside Energy to cut some gas emissions by 2030 and reach net zero by 2050. Additional rules mandate ongoing monitoring and compliance with emissions restrictions.

These safeguards aim to balance industrial needs with climate commitments. Officials say any breaches could trigger penalties or even revocation of the license, representing Australia’s toughest fossil fuel project oversight yet.

How is Indigenous heritage being protected?

The North West Shelf project is located near the Murujuga rock art, which is among the oldest in the world. Environment Minister Murray Watt imposed multiple conditions to shield the site, limiting air emissions that could harm the art and requiring Woodside to regularly consult with Indigenous groups.

Extra legal protections, including a new "partial declaration" for the Murujuga area, have also been put in place. Local Aboriginal leaders welcomed these steps as recognition of the area’s spiritual and cultural significance.

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What do critics and supporters say?

Climate organizations and the Australian Greens call the extension a "carbon bomb," arguing it undermines global efforts to limit warming. They accuse the government of betraying its climate pledges and say continued gas expansion locks in future emissions.

Supporters argue the project offers stability, jobs, and strategic energy resources. Woodside Energy’s leadership says the company has reliably supplied energy for over four decades and can meet new standards without risking outages or economic damage.

What could this mean for Australia’s climate goals?

Activists warn extending the North West Shelf project makes hitting Australia’s emission targets harder, especially given the nation’s history of natural disasters linked to climate change.

Federal policies that balance economic, environmental, and cultural needs will come under closer scrutiny as Australia enters its next climate phase.

Australia’s energy future remains contentious as the world demands low-carbon innovation, and fossil fuel projects face mounting pressure from both governments and communities.