The Nationals WA have unanimously supported landowner’s rights to veto onshore oil and gas exploration and production on private land at the Party’s 2016 State Conference at the weekend.
The Moore branch of The Nationals WA introduced the motion supporting amendments to the Western Australian Petroleum and Geothermal Energy Resources Act 1967.
State Member for Moore Shane Love said the outcome was a major win for landholders, and if implemented would afford them the same right to veto over the petroleum industry afforded under the Mining Act 1978.
“This is a significant outcome and will help form the Party’s position in the lead up to the 2017 State election,” Mr Love said.
“Ensuring greater landholder rights has been one of my major priorities since being elected to parliament four years ago.
“The Nationals WA strongly support the landholders having the right to choose whether to allow gas exploration and production on their property.”
Mr Love said he would continue to champion the reform if elected at the March 2017 State election.
“I understand community concerns about the potential development of the onshore gas industry in WA,” Mr Love said.
“Giving landholder’s the right to veto exploration and production is an effective and clear cut way to maintain their property rights.
“If elected in March 2017, The Nationals WA will vigorously pursue this important reform on behalf of WA landholders.”
