Perceptions of coal seam gas in Queensland 2014–24

This project, conducted through CSIRO’s Gas Industry Social and Environmental Research Alliance (GISERA), explores community wellbeing and perceptions of coal seam gas (CSG) in the Western Downs and eastern Maranoa regions of Queensland – both areas that have experienced significant CSG development activity.

Four community surveys were conducted between 2014 and 2024. Each of these corresponded with a different industry phase and a different level of well activity.

The recently published 2024 report conveys the findings of the fourth survey, and also reports on changes that have taken place over the decade 2014–24.

This fact sheet focuses on perceptions and attitudes towards CSG. A key finding is that CSG attitudes and perceptions have become more positive over time, with an increase in the percentage of people who ‘approve’ and ‘embrace’ CSG developments, and a decrease in the percentage who ‘reject’ or simply ‘tolerate’ it since 2016.

Related research results focussing on community wellbeing are described in the fact sheet Trends in community wellbeing in Queensland 2014–24.