Buru Energy is defending its Rafael conventional gas project in the Kimberley region of Western Australia against accusations it could facilitate fracking. Environmental groups have raised concerns, suggesting the project may be a disguised pathway to unconventional gas extraction. Buru Energy firmly denies these claims, asserting the Rafael project is a conventional gas development. This denial comes as an environmental watchdog prepares to review the project’s potential impacts. The review will likely focus on assessing whether the project could lead to future fracking operations in the Kimberley. The outcome of the review is anticipated to influence the project’s progression and future gas development in the area. This dispute highlights ongoing debate about gas exploration and environmental protection in Western Australia’s remote regions.