The $43 billion Gorgon gas project has finally been given the green light with Federal Environment Minister Peter Garrett signing off on the deal at a meeting with the major stakeholders today.

The project, based at Barrow Island off the north coast of WA, will be the largest in the country’s history and make a significant contribution towards the nation’s economy.

First approved under the Howard Government in 2007, The Gorgon gas project was returned for further environmental assessment in 2008 when natural wildlife and species were put at risk by the project, including the Barrow Island mouse and the threatened flat back turtle.

With Mr Garret passing it of its 36 environmental conditions, the project will now create thousands of jobs and underpin a massive expansion of liquefied natural gas production across Australia.

WA Premier, Colin Barnett, said the deal will see massive benefits for the state as well as the nation.

“(the deal) Will see significant contribution towards WA’s prosperity over the next 30 years,” Mr Barnett said.

“The project will create about 10,000 jobs during the peak construction phase with more than 3500 direct and indirect jobs sustained throughout the life of the project.”

Chevron general manager, Roy Krzywosinski, also said the project will see a major influx of multi million international deals.

“To date the project has committed to $2 billion in contracts,” Mr Krzywosinski said.

“In the coming weeks and months we expect to commit upwards of $10 billion in contracts and purchase orders.”

But despite the positives, there are still those who are disappointed by the passing of the bill, viewing the decision as one which will cause even more harm to our nations habitat and outback serenity.

WHAT’S YOUR OPINION?

Do you think the go ahead of the Gorgon gas project is a good or bad decision?

Do you think the government has compromised environmental factors for economical benefits?