Campaign calls for law changes

COAL seam gas (CSG) companies have been given an opportunity to gain a 'social licence' from the people of NSW, and join a campaign demanding better protections for landholders.

Speaking at the CSG Inquiry in Sydney today, NSW Farmers President Fiona Simson said the campaign is calling on the State Government to make urgent changes to the law.

"The 20 petroleum (CSG) licence holders in NSW will receive letters this week, requesting they demonstrate how committed they are to working with farmers and landholders," she said.

"We've heard numerous statements from some companies to government inquiries about their willingness to work with regional NSW.

"We share these views and are offering each company a chance to join our campaign," Mrs Simson said.

Each company has been asked to write to Premier Barry O'Farrell to request five key changes to current legislation.

"Farmers and landholders should have the power to refuse access to CSG exploration and production on their own properties," Mrs Simson said.

"CSG companies should be required to prove their actions won't affect water resources, and an official body should be set up to collect water modelling data from the industry.

"Independent water testing should also be made mandatory in NSW - at no cost to landholders.

"Mandatory testing of chemicals used in the extraction process of 'fracking' is also needed, and we'd like real-time notification of when they're being used.

"To level the playing field these changes must be written into law. If CSG companies are truly committed to working with regional NSW, they will support us in seeking these reforms."