Geothermal "hot earth" power is far better than power from traditional fossil fuels in terms of cost-effectiveness and environmental friendliness, but until recently it has been geographically limited to areas near tectonic plate boundaries. Advances in science have expanded the range and size of viable resources, making the possibility of geothermal power development in Australia a near-reality.

Three interlinked  programs will complement the $560 million to be spent on geothermal exploration in the Perth Basin in the next six years.

Linking below-ground research with above-ground development to make possible the exploration and utilisation of low-grade heat in a permeable sedimentary environment.