Signed in October the non-binding agreement was based on CNOOC acquiring a 12.5% interest in the project while contracting the delivery of up to 100 million tonnes of liquefied natural gas over 25 years.

The upcoming visit will be used by the Chinese to complete more advanced studies into the project which has yet to obtain development approval from the State Government.

Initial investment in the project is slated at $6 billion, but this may rise to $11 billion over the 25 year life of the project, while taxes and royalties generated by the development are expected to total $37 million.

Located offshore Western Australia the Gorgon Gas Field has certified proven hydrocarbon reserves of 12.9 trillion cubic feet (Tcf), with total natural gas resources in the Greater Gorgon Area exceeding 40Tcf.

Participants in the Gorgon Joint Venture are ChevronTexaco (4/7th interest and operator), Shell (2/7th interest) and ExxonMobil (1/7th interest).