Western Australia grants State Significant status to Woodside's Browse offshore gas project

The Western Australian government has awarded State Significant Project status to the Woodside‑led Browse to North West Shelf development, the highest priority under the state's Lead Agency Framework. The designation aims to streamline whole‑of‑government coordination as the project moves toward key regulatory milestones. Woodside estimates the venture could add about $98 billion (A$141 billion) to national GDP, generate roughly $39 billion (A$56 billion) in taxes and royalties, and support thousands of jobs while extending the life of the North West Shelf facilities and bolstering LNG exports.

Greenpeace Australia Pacific cautioned that the project includes plans to drill at Scott Reef, a pristine marine ecosystem. Campaigner Hannah Schuch warned of risks to pygmy blue whales, green sea turtles and the broader climate, citing the potential release of 1.6 billion tonnes of carbon and the danger of oil spills. The group urged both state and federal governments to reject the drilling proposal due to its environmental and climate impacts.