Natural Gas is a colourless, odourless mixture of gases made up mostly of methane (CH4). Other gases that can form part of natural gas include small amounts of ethane (C2H6), propane (C3H8) and butane (C4H10). Natural Gas liquifies at a temperature of minus 161 degrees Celsius.

It is found in oil fields (associated) either dissolved or isolated in natural gas fields (non associated), and in coal beds (as coal-bed methane). When methane-rich gases are produced by the anaerobic decay of non-fossil organic material, these are referred to as biogas. Sources of biogas include swamps, marshes, and landfills (see landfill gas), as well as sewage sludge and manure by way of anaerobic digesters, in addition to enteric fermentation particularly in cattle.

Natural Gas has a good safety record.  Methane is lighter than air and easily disperses in the event of a gas leak.  Another reason Natural Gas has such a good safety record is that its use in Australia is governed by rigorous industry technical standards.

Natural Gas is the cleanest burning fossil fuel.   It produces virtually no solid waste and lower levels of greenhouse gases.    When you use Natural Gas less carbon dioxide is released into the atmosphere than when other fossil fuels are used.   Carbon dioxide is a major cause of the Greenhouse Effect and by using Natural Gas instead of electricity or other fossil fuels you can significantly reduce the amount of carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere.   A gas fuelled power station could be considered environmentally friendly compared to those burning coal or other fossil fuels.   Gas is also economical and can be used at around half the cost of electricity.