Last week, the Australian government granted preliminary approval to extend operations of the North West Shelf Project, the nation’s largest liquefied natural gas plant, until 2070. Located on Western Australia’s Burrup Peninsula, the project has faced strong opposition from Indigenous groups and human rights advocates.

The Burrup Peninsula, known as Murujuga, holds immense cultural significance due to over one million ancient petroglyphs—rock carvings dating back 50,000 years, described by Indigenous-led group Save Our Songlines as “equivalent to holy scriptures.” Raelene Cooper, a Mardudhunera woman and Murujuga traditional custodian, stated, “The Australian government should not be putting business interests ahead of Indigenous people’s cultural rights and the rights to a healthy environment.”

Concerns have mounted over industrial emissions causing damage to these priceless carvings. UNESCO recently rejected Australia’s bid to add Murujuga’s Cultural Landscape to the World Heritage List, citing ongoing harm from pollution. Professor Benjamin Smith warned, “If the pollution continues, the rock art risks being lost altogether.”

Beyond cultural damage, climate activists stress the project’s environmental impact. The Australia Institute estimates the extension will produce 90 million tonnes of emissions annually—equivalent to 12 coal power stations. Indigenous campaigners remain determined, with Cooper initiating federal court action to protect Murujuga’s heritage.

“The extension undermines efforts to limit global warming and threatens Indigenous cultural survival,” said Human Rights Watch, urging the government to revoke the project extension and respect Indigenous and environmental rights.