This submission reviews some of the many new seminal studies on health impacts linked to with gas developments. These add weight to previous research examining contributions of the industry to increased hospitalisation rates for heart failure, heart attacks, asthma, and increase mortality (death) from cardiovascular and respiratory diseases. These new studies extend the range of developmental impacts linked to gas mining, which include lower birth weights and severe birth defects. The peer reviewed literature now contains extensive evidence of psychological and mental health loss as people witness extensive degradation of deeply held social and environmental values that support their wellbeing. As previously emphasised, Aboriginal Territorians already experience the nation’s highest inequalities and vulnerabilities to these health conditions and have profound connection to Land.

The submission discusses the serious escalation of changes in climate, water and biodiversity in recent years, arguing that “times have changed and the crises we face are almost insurmountable”. The author argue there is now no doubt about the contribution of gas mining to these crises and the opportunities to act now by rapid transition away from oil, gas and coal.

The authors conclude that this evidence provides adequate reason for opposing the Register of Legislation on Industry Research and Development (Beetaloo Cooperative Drilling Program) Instrument 2021 and all further gas developments in the Northern Territory.