Queensland Premier calls for fast-tracked environmental approvals to develop the Taroom Trough as Australia’s first new oil field in about half a century, framing it as a generational opportunity for national fuel security.

He pushes the federal government to expedite the expansion of the oil field in outback Queensland through a streamlined process.

Federal Energy Minister says any Commonwealth approval will rely on economics and engineering, following standard processes and not changing the EPBC Act amid geopolitical tensions.

The report carries an updated timestamp reflecting the latest reporting on April 8, 2026.

The story appears in The Sydney Morning Herald’s national news section as part of ongoing coverage of energy and regional development in Australia.

Environment Minister Watt reiterates that fossil fuel projects cannot be exempt from the EPBC Act via a national interest exemption and signals openness to concrete proposals from Queensland, though none have been received.

Crisafulli argues for changes to the EPBC Act beyond December reforms, noting the fuel industry was not included and highlighting economic and security risks from global supply dependence.

Taroom Trough would lift Shell’s output from about 200 barrels per day, with oil shipped to Eromanga for refining into diesel.

Premier Crisafulli urges the federal Environment Minister to consider a national interest exemption under the EPBC Act to expedite approvals for domestic fuel self-sufficiency amid a crisis.

Bowen notes potential speedier approvals through bilateral working arrangements, but insists projects must be economically viable and undergo the standard assessment pathway.