"There is an air of optimism in the WA oil and gas sector about the northern Perth Basin at present, and the Government is pleased to be able to facilitate further investment and new discoveries," said parliamentary secretary Ken Travers, who represents State Development Minister, Clive Brown.

"A number of exciting discoveries have been made in the northern Perth Basin of late - at Beharra Springs North (gas), Cliff Head (oil), Hovea (oil and gas) - and there was yesterday's announcement about oil being recovered at Jingemia.

"These discoveries, together with the close proximity to Perth and its infrastructure and production facilities, make the northern Perth Basin an enticing region to explore.

"I strongly urge oil and gas operators to seriously consider the potential the areas have to offer and get an application in by April 24, 2003."

Mr Travers said a comprehensive package on the Perth Basin Onshore and State Waters areas release is available from the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resource's website at http://www.mpr.wa.gov.au CD copies are also available on request.

The department's Geological Survey Division has also compiled a report that reviews a number of prospects and leads within the northern Perth Basin. This report can be purchased through the Department's electronic bookshop on the website.

The northern Perth Basin and state waters acreage release coincides with the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources' (MPR), 2002 Petroleum Open Day, being held at the Burswood Convention Centre today.