FARMERS and mining groups have ramped up their pressure on the NSW Coalition government ahead of the imminent announcement of new rules for the exploration and extraction of coal-seam gas.
The Australian understands state cabinet will this afternoon consider the final version of a strategic land use policy for the state, with public release later in the week.
It is understood the underlying principle of the policy will be consistent with a draft version released in March: a series of "gateways" setting the bar for mining approval higher where there are competing land uses, such as farming, horse breeding and viticulture.
The draft policy was criticised by farmers and environment groups, who want parts of the state "ring fenced" from CSG, as well as by miners, who do not believe "lines on maps" should be used to regulate the industry.
But NSW Energy Minister Chris Hartcher yesterday made it clear the industry -- which employs more than 12,000 workers in Queensland, but is on hold in NSW -- will get the green light.
"NSW is facing a gas supply crisis," Mr Hartcher said.
"There are over one million households that depend on gas."
The Australian
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