Landholder Rights in the NT: Fracking and other Onshore Gas Operations
This factsheet explains the rights landholders have under NT legislation when companies explore for oil or gas on their land, including when companies propose fracking as a method for extracting gas. It will be useful for landholders whose land is affected by oil and gas projects.
Summary
Key takeaways
Hydraulic fracturing, or fracking, is a mining technique that is used to extract petroleum (usually in the form of methane gas) from shale rock. The process involves a mixture of water, sand and chemicals (frac-fluid) being injected underground at high pressure to crack open rock layers and release oil or gas inside the fossil fuel reserves underground.
This factsheet focusses on your rights in the regulatory approvals process for exploration permits and production licenses. At points where decisions are made under the Petroleum Act there are different rights available and ways to exercise those rights.
The Petroleum Act 1984 (NT) and its regulations govern the process for obtaining approval to explore for and produce oil and gas on land in the NT.
You have rights to compensation for damage to land and improvements on the land caused by oil and gas operations.
There are certain ‘no-go’ areas protected from oil and gas operations even if these are going ahead on your land (for instance locations of a bore or dwelling).
All members of the public can participate in consultation on proposed oil and gas projects.
A Land Access Agreement must be negotiated before oil and gas operations can begin on your land.
Key actions
Know the process for government approvals of fracking projects and your rights.
Obtain legal advice before signing a Land Access Agreement.
Participate in consultation on proposed gas projects.
