APA Group has now completed its Stage 1 and Stage 2 East Coast Gas Grid (ECGG) Expansions, creating a combined 25 per cent increase of gas transportation capacity on the ECGG versus pre expansion works.

The Stage 1 and 2 Expansions were delivered at a total capital investment of around $300 million and resulted in increased winter peak capacity through additional compression and associated works on both the South West Queensland Pipeline (SWQP) and Moomba Sydney Pipeline (MSP).

The SWQP and the MSP are the key pathways for delivery of gas from Queensland, the Cooper Basin and the Northern Territory to southern markets.

The ECGG Expansion Program currently comprises the following stages:

  • Stage 1 – completed early 2023: The first stage of expansion works includes the construction of a single site of compression on each of the SWQP and MSP and will increase gas transportation capacity by 12 per cent.
  • Stage 2 – completed early 2024: The second stage of expansion works includes the construction of an additional compressor station on each of the SWQP and MSP which added a further 13 per cent of gas transportation capacity.
  • Stage 3 - design: APA has undertaken preliminary engineering and design works on the third stage of the Expansion Program. As part of this solution, a long lead item compressor has been ordered to assist with schedule delivery risk which will be put into service as APA finalises Stage 3 expansion plans to meet market demand.

The proposed ECGG Expansion Program presents an optimal opportunity to maximise gas supply via existing infrastructure with minimal environmental and social impact.

The ECGG Expansion Program is committed to maximising business supply and employment opportunities in the local regions around each infrastructure works site where possible.

1. Project timing

Construction of Stage 1 of the ECGG Expansion Program was completed in early-2023. Commissioning of Stage 1 is completed and the sites are now operational.  

Construction of Stage 2 was completed in early-2024 and with commissioning also being completed, the Stage 2 sites are now operational.

APA continues work on Stage 3 requirements and solutions. Specific timing and scope are being developed and scheduled to be in operation in advance of market demand.

2. Project approvals

APA is committed to consulting and working closely with local communities on the ECGG Expansion Program. During the approvals phase of the project, APA has provided project information and gathered feedback through engagement of key stakeholders, including First Nations groups, landholders, local business, community groups, and federal, state and local governments.

APA has received all required local, State and Federal approvals for Stages 1 and 2 in both Queensland and New South Wales. 

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Landscape at one of the project sites in New South Wales.

3. Further information

Read  APA's original announcement of the project.

4. Connect with us

For further information on the East Coast Grid Expansion Program, call 1800 856 001 (8am to 5pm AEST, Monday to Friday) or email [email protected]