Pacific Leaders Urge Australia to Reject Major Gas Project Amid Climate Concerns

Pacific Island leaders have called on Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to reject Woodside Energy’s proposed extension of the North West Shelf gas project, citing concerns over climate impacts and regional trust. The project, which would extend operations at a major LNG facility in the culturally significant Murujuga landscape until 2070, could emit 4 billion tonnes of CO₂—equivalent to over 200 years of emissions from Pacific Small Island Developing States combined. The leaders argue that approving the project would undermine Australia’s bid to co-host COP31 and threaten the survival of their nations. They emphasize the need for moral clarity and urge Australia to demonstrate climate leadership by rejecting fossil fuel expansion. “If Australia wants to host COP31 with us, it must uphold the trust we placed in it by permanently rejecting this project,” said Hon. Dr. Maina Talia, Tuvalu’s Climate Minister. Pacific nations have long advocated for a just transition away from fossil fuels and support a Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty. Civil society leaders have welcomed improved relations with Australia but warn that approving the North West Shelf Extension would erode trust in regional partnerships.

Published: 5/29/2025