The Western Australian Government has launched a new initiative to promote the use of WA engineering and design capability by offshore energy projects.

 

This initiative is based on the findings of an independent assessment by Curtin University’s Dr Martin West of the ability of local engineering and design industry to supply to offshore projects.

 

WA Commerce Minister Simon O’Brien said he would be signalling to oil and gas proponents that use of the local engineering and design industry is a priority.

 

The Government will fund industry associations, such as, Engineers Australia and the Association of Professional Engineers, Scientists and Managers Australia to identify future opportunities to supply.


“These opportunities will be the focus of discussion between Government and project proponents.  Explanations will be sought from developers not realising local opportunities.


“The greatest opportunity to supply exists during the front end engineering and design stage.  A recent example of this is the engagement of 350-400 local engineers and designers in the build up of the Browse project.”


The Minister said local engineering and design companies had a strong track record in winning work packages internationally.


“The Government and industry are determined to build upon this by making WA a regional hub for development and support of energy-based resource development,” he said.     

 

Dr West’s report is at: http://www.commerce.wa.gov.au/localindustryparticipation