Fracking off, says government

The company exploring for underground oil and gas in Greater Bunbury will not use the controversial "fracking" technique to mine it, according to the State Government.

The Department of Mines and Petroleum yesterday announced Sydney-based Bunbury Energy had no intention of using hydraulic fracturing.

The company wants approval to explore a swathe of land covering Bunbury, Capel, Dardanup and Donnybrook.

Department petroleum division executive director Jeff Haworth said the geology of the area to be explored was "not suitable" to support fracking.

"Should the company receive permit approval, its two-year firm plan has proposed a 150km seismic survey," Mr Haworth said.

"We have also been advised by the company that it does not intend to access private land or sensitive areas and that the survey would be conducted along roadsides and other accessible areas."

The Department of Mines and Petroleum wants the company to provide a stakeholder engagement plan by the end of November.