URGENT UPDATE: Labor Party members have just declared their demand for a complete ban on fracking across 100% of Western Australia. This decisive move occurred at a State conference in Fremantle on Saturday, where a new clause was added to the party’s conservation and climate change platform. Currently, fracking is restricted in 98% of WA, but exceptions remain in the Kimberley and Mid West regions.
The push for a full ban is gaining momentum, but any alterations to WA’s fracking laws still require approval from the WA Parliament. Premier Roger Cook has maintained a firm stance on the current fracking policies, asserting they are balanced and responsible. However, pressure is mounting from within the party, with members advocating for stronger protections for the environment.
Martin Pritchard, Executive Director of Environs Kimberley, emphasized the importance of this shift, stating, “The majority of West Australians don’t want to see the Kimberley trashed so polluting, dangerous fracking can proceed.” He urged the Cook Government to heed this growing sentiment among party members and the broader public.
In contrast, Richard Ellis, Director of Australian Energy Producers WA, warned that a blanket ban could jeopardize the state’s long-term energy security. He referenced over a dozen independent inquiries, including the 2018 Scientific Panel Inquiry, which concluded that hydraulic fracturing is safe when properly regulated.
As this situation develops, all eyes are on the Cook Government and the WA Parliament to see how they will respond to the escalating demands from Labor Party members. The outcome could have profound implications for Western Australia’s energy landscape and environmental policies.
Stay tuned for the latest updates as the debate over fracking intensifies in the region.
