Yes I believe they will, there is some red tape, the process...

Yes I believe they will, there is some red tape, the process here is that there are water management plans created by the NT Water Board (ALEC, greenies have a seat on it). They identify all aquifers and the risks involved and the NT Govt makes the final decision. The NT Govt gets the royalties for inland gas not the Feds and they need the $$ like never before, I just heard Gunner say that the NT just cannot operate with the latest GST cuts. Here is a recent article on fracking in the local news

“The final report confirms that developing the Territory’s natural gas resources would have significant economic and employment benefits for the NT.
“It has debunked many of the myths spread by activists opposed to onshore gas development,” said Mr Doman.
“The report echoes the conclusion reached by numerous other scientific inquiries and reviews that any risks associated with hydraulic fracturing can be minimised or eliminated with proper regulation.
“APPEA’s member companies stand ready to invest billions of dollars in new projects in the Territory if the industry is allowed to resume exploration activity.
“There is no reason the Territory cannot manage the safe, sustainable development of its considerable natural gas resources.