Since 1959, the Australian Petroleum Production & Exploration Association Ltd (APPEA) has been the peak national body representing the collective interests of the upstream oil and gas exploration and production industry. The Association has more than 60 full member companies that explore for and produce Australia�s oil and gas resources. These companies currently account for an estimated 98 per cent of the nation�s petroleum production. In addition, APPEA also represents more than 140 associate member companies that provide a wide range of goods and services to industry. APPEA actively assists its members by working with the Australian, state and territory governments to ensure that the regulatory and commercial framework promotes investment and maximises the return to the Australian community from the identification and development of the nation�s oil and gas resources. APPEA aims to secure the right conditions so that member companies can operate in a safe, sustainable, and profitable manner. Importantly, the Association also seeks to increase community and government understanding of the upstream petroleum industry by publishing information about its activities and economic importance to the nation. The Association also conducts a number of forums for exchanging ideas and contributing to the development of the industry�s policy positions.