Oil and Gas in Australia – Sector Overview
As well as being blessed with a whole heap of minerals, Australia does alright for itself in terms of oil and gas production as well. The industry is worth around $28 billion per year and contributes 58 percent of Australia’s primary energy, 2.5 percent of Australia’s gross domestic product, and almost $9 billion in direct tax payments. While oil production is actually on the decline, there is potential for more exploration as Australia searches for more natural reserves. Australia also has gas reserves of 400 trillion cubic feet. Three major liquefied natural gas projects in Queensland and field development off the coast of Western Australia have seen recruitment drives in both states. In particular, construction workers are in demand in Queensland, as well as civil supervisors, health and safety advisors and environmental consultants. In WA, environmental specialists, advisers, discipline engineers, integrity engineers and senior level managers are also sought after. Overall, demand for construction workers is expected to double in the coming years, while structural fitters and welders, mechanical fitters, electricians, fixed and mobile plant operators, structural steel fixers, motor mechanics, crane operators, carpenters and concrete layers are also in demand.
Oil and Gas in Australia – Location
Australia’s oil-producing regions include Western Australia, Bass Strait, the Northern Territory, the Timor Sea, South Australia and Queensland. Most LNG production occurs in WA and Queensland, with a smaller amount in the Northern Territory. As with the mining industry, many of the jobs are located in remote locations.
Oil and Gas in Australia – Skills and Qualifications
The skills and qualifications required of workers in the oil and gas industry are similar to that in mining – good qualifications and work experience.
Oil and Gas in Australia – Key employers and recruiters
As with the mining industry, there are a large number of companies, contractors and sub-contractors involved. Identifying who suits your skills and requirements is vital in finding the perfect job. Many of the big names in oil and gas – BP, Caltex, ExxonMobil and Shell – operate in Australia, as well as domestic companies.
Recruiters include:
Oil and Gas in Australia – Pay
Oil and gas workers in Australia can average around $130,000, compared to a global average of $70,000. Salaries for migrant workers tended to be slightly higher, and Australia was one of only two regions, along with the Middle East, which saw an increase in foreign workers in 2012.
IMAGE: BLM Nevada