THE STATUS OF HYDROCARBON EXPLORATION, OFFSHORE NORTHEASTERN AUSTRALIA AND THE GULF OF PAPUA

Abstract

Since 1969, geophysical exploration and drilling in the offshore area of northeastern Australia has been at a virtual standstill. In the Gulf of Papua, progress recommenced in late 1973 when Papua New Guinea gained control of its mineral resources. Exploration has been curtailed by the formation of a Royal Commission to study possible adverse effects on the Great Barrier Reef due to oil exploration. The findings of the Royal Commission were delivered on 30th October 1974. Generally considered, the Commission concluded that risks of hydrocarbon spills were small enough and hazards from such spills not detrimental enough (except for dispersants and sinking agents) that drilling in selected areas should take place after improving safety precautions.

The Great Barrier Reef National Park Act came into effect on 20th June 1975. Provision is made in the act for allowing or forbidding the recovery of minerals in particular zones of the Great Barrier Reef region. To date neither the zones nor the regulations governing exploration under the Act have been proclaimed.

Nine distinct areas of sedimentation having hydrocarbon potential are recognized in the area. These are, in order of interest: the Gulf of Papua, the Maryborough and Capricorn Basins, the Halifax, Laura and Hillsborough Basins, the Queensland Plateau, the Marion Plateau and, lastly the Styx Basin. In these areas, potential hydrocarbon production is indicated by Pasca No. A1 and Uramu No. 1A in the Gulf of Papua, and onshore at Barikewa No. 1, Lehi No. 1, Kuru No. 1, Bwata No. 1 and Puri No. 1. One of three exploration wells in the onshore Maryborough Basin had significant gas shows.