Santos Spuds First Beetaloo Appraisal Well, Eyes LNG Supply

Australia's Santos has kicked off drilling of its first Beetaloo appraisal well, marking a major milestone in unlocking new long-term gas supply for Australian households and businesses.

The company noted that spudding the well is a critical first step in the drilling process, with the drill bit breaking ground on Friday morning. The commencement of drilling follows approval of Santos' environmental management plan by the Northern Territory Minister for Lands, Planning and Environment in May 2026.

Santos Managing Director Kevin Gallagher described spudding the first appraisal well as a significant achievement for the company and the Northern Territory - and for Australia. 'The Beetaloo Basin is a phenomenal resource of national importance,' he said.