The Sedco 703 will drill the well to a planned total depth of 2137 metres in water depths of 27.7m. The well, located in permit NT/P57, is currently drilling ahead at 730m.
Woodside's interest in NT/P57 is 70% with AGIP Australia BV holding the remaining 30%.
Last week, Woodside consolidated its position in the Bonaparte Basin after acquiring Shell's interests in three permits in the area, including Shell's stake in the nearby Blacktip gasfield, said to contain 1 trillion cubic feet of gas.