The three permits, WA-384-P, WA-385-P, WA-394-P, are located in the south Exmouth basin area. Shell will assume operatorship of the licences. Commenting on the acquisition Chris Gunner, Chief Operating Officer for Shell Development Australia, said that the acquisition was consistent with Shell’s focus on growing its gas portfolio in Australia.
“Shell is committed to growing its portfolio in Australia through exploration for more integrated gas. By 2015, Asia Pacific is predicted to represent about 50% of global LNG demand and we see Australia as well-placed to supply LNG into this expanding market.” "Shell will apply its experience and technology to undertake a safe and responsible exploration programme in the permit areas ." Subject to all required Government approvals and in line with initial work permit requirements, Shell expects to begin acquiring seismic data in the permit areas in 2008/09.
Over the past 24 months, Shell has invested in nine new permit areas, two farm-ins and the purchase of rights to Crux gas, and the NWS LNG Train 5 expansion.
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For further information contact:
ANITA HARBEN, Communications Manager, Shell Development (Australia) Pty Ltd, Mobile: 0414 453 990, Email:  anita.harben@shell.com, Tel: 08 9213 4613
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