An environmental group is escalating its efforts to block fracking in the Beetaloo Basin.

The Environment Centre Northern Territory (ECNT) has filed urgent legal action against the NT government and Tamboran Resources. 

This follows a recent court defeat over similar concerns.

The ECNT submitted an application to the NT Civil and Administrative Tribunal. 

The group is asking for a temporary halt to Tamboran's operations until the court decides whether fracking poses “unacceptable” risks to water sources. 

Tamboran Resources has been active in the gas-rich Beetaloo Basin since the NT government gave the green light for full-scale fracking in 2022. 

The company has already drilled exploratory wells and secured further drilling approvals but needs additional clearances before moving to full production.

This case is set to test the NT's “third party merit review provision” laws introduced in 2022 after its Scientific Inquiry into Hydraulic Fracturing. 

ECNT argues that the risks to water from fracking were not properly assessed by the NT government.

In August, ECNT asked Tamboran to delay drilling until a decision was reached, but the company continued its work.

Tamboran maintains that its Environment Management Plan was thoroughly reviewed and approved. 

“Tamboran takes the protection of the environment and water extremely seriously and remains committed to following the Northern Territory’s environmental regulations,” a spokesperson for the company said. 

NT Energy Minister Gerard Maley says the government's support for fracking as vital to economic growth.

This case marks the first major test of new laws designed to scrutinise resource development projects, with water safety remaining the central issue.

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