Mines Minister backs fracking

Mines and Petroleum Minister Bill Marmion will consider a Parliamentary committee's report that found fracking was safe with strict regulations.

The process, technically known as hydraulic fracturing, uses high pressure liquids pumped underground into a well to unlock oil and gas deposits.

The Upper House Environment and Public Affairs standing committee's report comes as Greater Bunbury residents have fought a petroleum exploration application from NSW-based company Bunbury Energy.

Conservation activists have campaigned against all petroleum activities in the region and are concerned about a number of issues, including fears of contaminated water.

However, the committee, while finding water contamination was a risk, had confidence in the Department of Mines and Petroleum's ability to regulate the industry.

"It is perhaps a surprise to many that Western Australia, with its extensive reserves of shale gas, has not yet experienced the dramatic growth of the industry seen in other jurisdictions, most notably the USA," it said.

"Whether (or when) a substantial shale gas industry arises in Western Australia remains to be seen but it is likely, in any case, that Western Australia's regulators will receive further applications for exploration and development.

"At every stage, the Western Australian community will expect - as it should - that those matters will be dealt with by Government in a manner that ensures that any development which does proceed will do so in a manner which safeguards the wellbeing of our people and the environment we live in."

Mr Marmion said the State Government would review the committee's 51 findings and 12 recommendations.