A geological framework to support play-based resource assessments in the Pedirka and Simpson basins

The Permian and Triassic Pedirka and Simpson basins in central Australia have proven petroleum potential with a non-commercial oil discovery in the Poolowanna Trough and several wells showing evidence for residual oil columns. However, these basins remain underexplored with only 42 wells drilled and relatively sparse 2D seismic coverage. Consequently, our knowledge of the structural and stratigraphic framework of the basins continues to grow as new data sets are acquired. Understanding of the area’s resource potential continues to improve as new insights are gained into the presence and effectiveness of the key risk elements (reservoir, seal, hydrocarbon charge and trapping mechanisms) associated with a variety of sub-surface resources.