Media release – Eric Abetz, Minister for Business, Industry and Resources, 22 January 2025

Fracking ban extended to 2030

Fracking will remain banned in Tasmania until at least 2030.

Minister for Business, Industry and Resources, Eric Abetz, said the Tasmanian Government would maintain the moratorium on hydraulic fracturing (fracking) for hydrocarbon resource extraction for a further five years, until March 2030.

“This was a ban we initially put in place in 2015 in response to concerns from our farmers and the community more broadly and which we extended in 2020. Now we’re extending it again,” Minister Abetz said.

“With the already existing moratorium set to end, I sought advice on the matter last year and have decided to extend this moratorium well into the future.

“The 2015 review into fracking in Tasmania highlighted significant concerns including risks to our agricultural industries, branding and markets, public and environmental health, community cohesion and landowner engagement.

“By extending this moratorium we are ensuring Tasmania’s long-term prosperity and maintaining our reputation as a leader in clean, sustainable practices – something we continuously seek to champion through our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future.”

The extension provides clarity and security for farmers, landowners and regional communities, whose concerns about land access and environmental risks have been integral to this decision.

“We are committed to protecting Tasmania’s natural and economic assets while supporting innovation and investment in other sustainable industries,” Minister Abetz said.

“The Tasmanian Government will continue to engage with stakeholders, monitor global developments in resource extraction technologies and prioritise sustainable practices that align with the state’s environmental values.”


Tabatha Badger MP, Greens Mining spokesperson, 23 January 2025

About Fracking Time to Permanently Ban Fracking

It’s about fracking time for a permanent ban on fracking in Tasmania.

For over a decade the science has been very clear: fracking is not compatible with Tasmania’s environment or agricultural sector, and the fossil fuel industry is not compatible with climate action.

Extending the moratorium is better than nothing, but it does not go far enough. Farmers, landowners, scientists and environmentalists have long called for a permanent ban to protect our island’s environment, economy and lifestyle from this damaging practice forever.

In a climate emergency the fossil fuel industry needs to be rapidly decreasing, not expanding. Why won’t the Government make the community-supported decision and following Victoria’s lead in banning fracking forever? What possible reason could they have for keeping the farm gate open to future gas and oil possibilities?

There is no place for fracking in Tasmania – not now, not ever. It’s disappointing the Liberals haven’t announced a permanent ban, but it’s not too late for them to stop messing around and to do the right thing.

The Greens call on the government to immediately step up and give our farmers and future generations genuine certainty by permanently banning fracking in Tasmania.