Woodside’s Lobbying Efforts Spark Controversy Over Browse Project and Scott Reef
PERTH, Monday 23 February 2026 — Concerns are mounting over Woodside Energy’s conduct as newly released documents reveal a pattern of lobbying aimed at influencing environmental conditions related to its North West Shelf gas extension project. The revelations come at a critical juncture, just before the Western Australian Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) delivers its recommendation on the controversial Browse project, a key component of the broader North West Shelf development.
Lobbying Allegations and EPA Concerns
Freedom of Information (FOI) documents, published by Nine Papers, demonstrate that Woodside actively lobbied the federal government in September to weaken stipulations attached to the North West Shelf project. Previously obtained FOI requests also revealed that the WA EPA was prepared to reject the Browse plans in 2024, citing “unacceptable impacts” on Scott Reef, Australia’s largest oceanic reef system.
Scott Reef at Risk
Scott Reef is a particularly sensitive ecosystem. Woodside’s current plans still involve drilling more than 50 gas wells in the area, posing risks to vulnerable species like endangered pygmy blue whales and green turtles, as well as the potential for oil spills and seismic blasting. The EPA’s initial rejection highlighted these significant environmental concerns.
Greenpeace Calls for Rejection
Gemma Plesman, Senior Campaigner at Greenpeace Australia Pacific, expressed strong criticism of Woodside’s actions. “Woodside has been playing dirty, attempting to write its own rules about one of the most consequential and controversial fossil fuel projects on Australia’s books,” Plesman stated. She urged the WA EPA to reject the Browse proposal and the WA government to halt the project entirely.
The North West Shelf and Browse Interdependence
The North West Shelf is seen as the only viable pathway to develop the Browse Basin, one of Australia’s largest untapped gas fields. As reported by the ABC, the Browse Basin holds gas reserves large enough to meet Australia’s domestic demand for almost 20 years. The extension of the North West Shelf project was, according to industry insiders, primarily to enable the development of Browse.
Greater Western Flank Project and Regional Gas Supply
Woodside is also progressing with the Greater Western Flank Phase 4 project, a subsea tieback to existing North West Shelf facilities. Offshore Magazine reports that this project aims to offset a predicted shortfall in gas supply to the Western Australian market post-2028.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Browse Basin? The Browse Basin is a large, untapped gas field located off the coast of Western Australia.
What is Scott Reef? Scott Reef is Australia’s largest oceanic reef system, and a highly sensitive marine environment.
Why is the North West Shelf project important for Browse? The North West Shelf provides the only current viable infrastructure for developing and processing gas from the Browse Basin.
What are the environmental concerns surrounding the Browse project? Concerns include potential impacts on Scott Reef, endangered marine species, and the risk of oil spills and seismic blasting.
What is Woodside’s position on these concerns? Woodside has not publicly addressed the specific lobbying allegations detailed in the FOI documents.
Did you realize? The Browse Basin has been known to contain significant gas reserves for over half a century, but its remote location and environmental sensitivities have hindered development.
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