Blasting ban tabled
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Proposed legal changes have ignited a debate between fossil fuel profits and marine life survival.
Independent MP Dr Monique Ryan has introduced legislation in Parliament that would abolish permits allowing seismic blasting in Australian waters - a practice critics say poses severe risks to marine ecosystems and local fishing industries.
Dr Ryan says the Special Prospecting Authority (SPA) permits enable “auditory violence” against marine life.
For just over $8,000, SPAs allow exploration companies to conduct seismic testing, which involves loud, repetitive air gun blasts underwater to identify potential oil and gas reserves.
These blasts, fired every 15 seconds, can reach volumes comparable to atomic explosions. Environmentalists and scientists have linked the practice to significant harm, including displacing marine animals and destroying breeding grounds.
“This bill is an important step towards protecting our marine life, coastal communities, and fishing industries,” Dr Ryan says.
“Our environmental protections are grossly inadequate when, for a derisory fee, overseas-based firms can exploit areas larger than Tasmania, including marine parks.”
But a major fossil fuel lobby has voiced strong opposition, warning of potential economic repercussions.
Samantha McCulloch, CEO of Australian Energy Producers (AEP), says the bill is a threat to the nation’s energy security, describing seismic surveys as a “safe and proven technology” regulated to minimise environmental impact.
“Seismic surveying has underpinned Australia’s energy supply for decades, ensuring reliable gas for millions of homes and businesses,” McCulloch said.
She warned that halting new gas projects could exacerbate looming energy shortages, citing an EnergyQuest report (PDF) predicting higher energy costs and risks of blackouts if gas exploration ceases.
The government’s Future Gas Strategy identifies natural gas as critical to Australia's energy mix until at least 2050. Industry leaders argue that stopping seismic surveys would hinder investment in new resources, jeopardising the economy and energy supply.
Environmental advocates, including the Australian Marine Conservation Society (AMCS), have called for an immediate nationwide moratorium on seismic blasting until stronger regulations are in place.
The group says the practice puts endangered species at risk, including southern right whales, whose migratory routes overlap with current exploration zones.
AMCS Oil and Gas Campaign Manager Louise Morris has called for swift government action, citing ongoing seismic projects under regulatory review.
“Seismic blasting has continued unchecked for decades,” Morris says.
“We need comprehensive reform to protect marine life and prevent unnecessary repeat blasting of surveyed areas.”
The debate over SPA permits extends beyond Parliament.
Grassroots opposition has grown, with over 21,400 Australians signing petitions against seismic blasting. Community-led protests in Tasmania and Victoria have also challenged recent projects.
Dr Ryan’s bill is unlikely to be debated before the next sitting of Parliament, potentially after the federal election.