Woodside Energy is at the center of a storm over its North West Shelf gas project in Australia. Recent emails reveal that the company lobbied Environment Minister Murray Watt’s department to ease emission reduction requirements tied to the project’s approval. Originally, Watt imposed tough conditions on the extension, which would allow operations to continue until 2070. However, it appears many of these conditions were altered following discussions with Woodside.
Recently released documents show that two key requirements—real-time emissions monitoring and mandatory reductions every five years—were contested by Woodside. An unnamed official from Woodside wrote to deputy secretary Rachel Parry expressing concerns about the conditions, stating they had not yet been adjusted despite earlier discussions.
Under the new rules, Woodside can use either continuous emissions monitoring or predictive monitoring by June 2030. Critics argue that predictions can often lead to inaccurate data, failing to capture sudden changes in emissions. The relationship between Woodside and the government has drawn scrutiny; some officials were even advised to align Woodside’s public messaging with the government’s statements.
Watt’s approval has been contested in court by community group Save Australian Rock Art. Advocates claim the extension risks damage to Murujuga, a site of ancient rock art nearby that holds immense cultural significance. This area has over a million petroglyphs, showcasing a rich history dating back thousands of years. Despite recent efforts, including a UNESCO World Heritage listing in July 2025, tensions remain high.
In response to these criticisms, Woodside claims it has followed all regulatory procedures for the project’s approval. As the situation unfolds, both environmentalists and local communities continue to voice concerns over the project’s implications for both the environment and cultural heritage.
This scenario illustrates ongoing debates between industrial interests and environmental conservation, highlighting the complexities of energy policy in Australia.
For more about gas and energy policies affecting the environment, visit the Australian Government’s Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water.
