The purpose of this paper is to facilitate a discussion between the panel and Territorians about the Terms of Reference by identifying the potential risks of the hydraulic fracturing of onshore unconventional shale reservoirs and its associated activities in the Northern Territory.

In this paper, when identifying risks, the panel is referring to the issues concerning the hydraulic fracturing of unconventional onshore shale reservoirs in the Northern Territory.

Sections 3 and 4 of this paper provide information about hydraulic fracturing, including the differences between conventional gas and unconventional gas, coal seam gas and shale gas, and the location of prospective shale gas reservoirs in the Northern Territory.

Section 5 gives an overview of prior reports that have been produced in relation to hydraulic fracturing in the Northern Territory.

Section 6 gives an overview of the framework that relevantly regulates hydraulic fracturing and the petroleum industry in the Northern Territory.

Section 7 lists the potential risks, or issues, associated with hydraulic fracturing for onshore shale gas in the Northern Territory.

Section 8 provides information on ways that Territorians can meet the panel and provide feedback on this paper, including at hearings and community meetings that will be held across the Northern Territory in March 2017.

Sections 9 and 10 provide a timeline for the activities of the inquiry and the inquiry’s contact details.