Community perspectives of coal seam gas development during two phases of industry activity: construction and post-construction

Abstract

This research investigates a rural community’s perceptions of their future at two time-points during a major onshore gas project in the Surat Basin, Australia. The study site is a region in southern Queensland economically centred on agriculture. Using qualitative methods, the research found that the construction phase was dominated by residents’ concerns about the future and uncertainty about how community well-being might be affected. By the end of the construction phase, there were emerging signs of adjustment and adaptation to change. Factors such as a developing sense of collective efficacy, previous experience with the resources sector, a return to prior levels of acquaintanceship density and recognition of social and economic benefits may have contributed to this adjustment, although landowners remained concerned about water and the future of their farms.