South Australia to lift 10-year fracking ban in Limestone Coast, sparking debate over energy security versus environmental risk.
Adelaide – The South Australian government has announced it will introduce legislation to remove a 10-year moratorium on hydraulic fracture stimulation (fracking) in the Limestone Coast region. The ban, imposed in 2018 by the former Liberal government, was a response to widespread community concerns over risks to agricultural land and groundwater aquifers.
Malinauskas: "Science and economics should dictate energy policy."
Premier Peter Malinauskas stated that the decision does not approve fracking but removes a blanket prohibition. He emphasized that any future proposal would still need to meet rigorous scientific, environmental, and community scrutiny.
"Potential future gas resources should not be ruled out as the nation faces domestic gas supply pressure," Malinauskas said.
The move aims to begin a process of planning, technical studies, and baseline environmental work to support regulatory assessment.
Opposition and support
Opponents, including Mount Gambier Independent MP Travis Fatchen and the Limestone Coast Protection Alliance, expressed deep disappointment, voicing concerns over the potential risks to farmland and fragile water systems.
Conversely, the South Australian Chamber of Mines and Energy welcomed the announcement, calling it a critical step toward energy security and affordability.
Key points:
- The moratorium was imposed in 2018 due to community environmental concerns.
- The government will begin planning and environmental studies to support future regulatory assessments.
- Pro-fracking groups see this as a path to energy stability.
- Opponents remain worried about long-term impacts on agriculture and water.
The legislation is expected to be debated in the coming weeks.