Global Leader

Scientists and engineers in Perth have begun quietly setting up a centre which could encourage more floating gas projects off Western Australia's coast and create local jobs.

WA is expected to be the world's second-largest LNG exporter by 2020.

A new report says governments will need to balance the need to keep gas prices low for local consumers with securing royalties from producers.

Last month's huge oil discovery off the Pilbara coast, which could be the largest local find in 30 years, has already provided West Perth junior Carnarvon Petroleum with a significant boost to its share price.

A joint project between Woodside Petroleum and Curtin University is aiming to boost productivity in the construction of liquefied natural gas projects in Western Australia.