Primary Industries and Water Minister Jeremy Rockliff announced today that the government has introduced a five-year moratorium on fracking following a review of its potential use and impact on the state.

"The Liberal Government supports a strong and thriving agriculture industry in Tasmania, which is why we have applied a precautionary principle when considering any measures that could impact on the sector's ability to grow ten-fold to $10 billion a year by 2050," Mr Rockliff said.

"This is a considered and prudent approach to the potential use of fracking in Tasmania, and takes into account the review's findings, submissions and subsequent industry and community representations."

Fracking is a mining technique where rock is fractured by a hydraulically pressurized liquid made of water, sand, and chemicals. A high-pressure fluid (usually chemicals and sand suspended in water) is then injected into a wellbore to create cracks in the deep-rock formations through which natural gas, petroleum, and brine will flow more freely. 

The government received 157 submissions as part of a review into fracking by the Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment, together with the Environment Protection Authority and Mineral Resources Tasmania.

Mr Rockliff said given the uncertainty around fracking, this would protect Tasmania's reputation for producing fresh, premium and safe produce.

"There is considerable concern around the potential negative impacts of fracking, particularly within our rural communities and farming families who rely so heavily on our global reputation for producing premium and safe products," he said.

"It is also clear that there is considerable concern for landowners' rights and public and environmental health. After consideration, advice and consultation, it is prudent that we introduce a five year moratorium on fracking in Tasmania."