Native Title Holders Raise Concerns
The Northern Territory government's approval of a plan to drill nine new gas wells in the Beetaloo Basin has sparked controversy, with native title holders expressing concerns about inadequate consultation and potential environmental and cultural damage.
Lands, Planning and Environment Minister Joshua Burgoyne approved Empire Energy's Environment Management Plan (EMP) last week, paving the way for drilling and infrastructure development for gas production. However, native title holders argue they haven't had sufficient opportunity to discuss the project and haven't reached a decision on whether to support it.
Wuyaliya cultural lawman Asman Rory stated that local families haven't decided whether to accept Empire Energy's fracking and gas sale plans. The Nurrdalindji Native Title Aboriginal Corporation (NNTAC) also raised concerns about the project's environmental impact, including potential contamination, contribution to climate change, and depletion of the Cambrian Limestone Aquifer, which they consider crucial to the region's culture and nature.
NNTAC chairman Djingili elder Samuel Sandy believes Empire Energy is attempting to proceed without proper consent, citing a previous breach of environmental obligations by failing to report the discovery of ancient stone tools during archaeological surveys. The NNTAC is urging federal Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek to invoke the "water trigger" and subject the project to federal environmental assessment due to potential risks to water resources.
Jessie Shaecken, interim chief executive of the Northern Land Council (NLC), which advocates for traditional owners, criticized the NT government for ignoring the NLC's advice and approving the EMP despite inadequate consultation with native title holders. Empire Energy, however, claims to have held extensive consultations with traditional owners, including over 30 on-country meetings in the past decade.
The company also maintains that the NNTAC lacks jurisdiction over the project area and that the project won't negatively impact the land or cultural heritage. Empire Energy still requires approval from traditional owners under the NT Petroleum Act before selling the gas, and negotiations are reportedly ongoing.
The controversy surrounding the Beetaloo Basin gas project highlights the complex issues surrounding resource development, environmental protection, and the rights of Indigenous Australians. The concerns raised by native title holders underscore the importance of thorough consultation and ensuring that projects proceed with the full consent and participation of affected communities.