Coal seam gas (CSG) water is a by-product of coal seam gas production. It is variable in quality and can contain high quantities of salt and other contaminants that limit the water’s use without treatment. If released to land or waters through inappropriate management, coal seam gas water has the potential to cause environmental harm.

Across Queensland, significant quantities of water are being produced in the course of coal seam gas exploration and production. Currently most coal seam gas water is disposed of in evaporation ponds. Limited quantities of untreated coal seam gas water are used for livestock, coal washing and related petroleum activities.

The forecast expansion in coal seam gas water production will see a large increase in the volume of coal seam gas water requiring treatment and disposal, particularly if any of the proposed liquefied natural gas (LNG) projects are developed.

The Department is also leading a whole-of-government assessment of broader policy issues and risks associated with the establishment of an LNG industry in Queensland.

Policy position

The Queensland Government has identified a policy position in relation to coal seam gas water that recognises this, and aims to achieve environmentally sustainable outcomes and encourage greater beneficial use of this water.

Discussion paper 

In May 2009, the Queensland Government released a discussion paper on management of CSG water ( 151 KB) for stakeholder consultation. Submissions are currently under consideration.