Special Prospecting Authorities (SPAs) are a type of permit granted to exploration companies to conduct seismic testing across large areas of oceans to search for undersea oil and gas.
A SPA permits a company to conduct seismic testing in the habitats of ocean species — including marine parks and other areas of critical ocean habitat. Evidence is growing that seismic testing has a harmful impact on marine life with significant detrimental effects on breeding and feeding grounds and the longevity of sea creatures.
The purpose of this Bill is to stop seismic testing pursuant to SPAs and protect marine life.
From the explanatory memo: The purpose of this Bill is to stop seismic testing pursuant to SPAs and protect marine life.Seismic testing, allowed under SPAs, has been shown to have detrimental impacts on marine ecosystems, affecting breeding and feeding grounds of sea creatures. The bill seeks to eliminate these activities in order to safeguard oceanic biodiversity. The bill has no financial impact.
Normative Bases
The bill should be supported because it prioritizes the health and preservation of marine ecosystems, aligning with environmentalist values. Seismic testing is known to disrupt marine life, which can lead to long-term ecological harm [Judgment]. By eliminating SPAs, the bill ensures that these potentially harmful activities are curtailed, promoting biodiversity and protecting endangered species. Furthermore, the bill embodies the principle of non-discrimination by safeguarding all marine life equally, irrespective of economic interests in oil and gas exploration.
The bill should be opposed because it may hinder economic development and the exploration of natural resources, which are vital for national growth and energy security. Prohibiting SPAs could limit access to potentially valuable oil and gas reserves, impacting energy markets and economic opportunities [Judgment]. Additionally, the bill might affect Australia's competitive edge in the global energy sector, thereby reducing its national prestige and economic influence.
2024-11-18
Not Proceeding
RYAN, Monique, MP
Unspecified
Climate Change / Environment, Discrimination / Human Rights, Energy Policy
Discusses who supports and opposes the bill in parliament, as well as exploring some of the background behind it, with quotes from advocates.
A detailed look at the some of the longer-term context of seismic testing in Australia, and research on its effects. (Implicitly supportive.)
An article from the Australian Energy Producers (a peak industry body) that cites evidence from multiple sources casting doubt on the claims of the bill's advocates.