The multi-million dollar programme will be led by CSIRO but funded by Chevron and will study the geology and ecology of the region which lies off Australia's south coast.
It is also hoped the programme will provide a better understanding of oil and gas prospectivity in the area to help reduce exploration risks and costs
“While just on our doorstep, the Great Australian Bight remains relatively unknown, but it also represents one of Australia’s most prospective exploration regions for oil and gas,” Australia's Industry Minister Ian Macfarlane said.
“This partnership is an example of how science and industry can work collectively to ensure Australia’s offshore hydrocarbon endowment can bring economic and social benefits that are efficient and sustainable.”
The government said marine geoscientists would...
