Consultants appointed by the state government will be in town to hear community views at an open day in the Terang Civic Hall Rose Room between 2 and 8pm.

It is one of a number of sessions organised across the state in areas which have been identified as prospective exploration areas.

The government has put a moratorium on unconventional gas exploration until it gleans more information from a water study, community views and industry impacts. 

Minister for Energy and Resources Russell Northe said it was important that the community and industry were clear about what activities were allowed. 

“The Coalition government’s cautious approach to potential onshore gas activity will ensure the economic benefits of onshore natural gas development are properly balanced against the legitimate interests of local communities, landowners and the environment,” Mr Northe said. 

“The former Labor government allocated 73 licences for coal seam, shale and tight gas  exploration and approved 23 fracking operations without any community consultation.”

Mr Northe encouraged interested people to attend the open day and speak to the consultants.

Government geologists, hydrogeologists and policy officers will also be present to answer questions and clarify issues. No bookings or registration is required.