WA Varanus Island gas crisis will be probed by Senate

An explosion on the island nearly three months ago wiped out about 30 per cent of the state's gas supplies.

West Australian Liberal Senator David Johnston on Thursday successfully referred the matter to the upper house's economic committee for inquiry.

The committee will examine the economic impact of the crisis on businesses and industry along with the government's response.

In undertaking the inquiry, the committee will be able to call "for the production by the West Australian government of all relative correspondence, advice and reports".

Senator Ronaldson's request that the committee also investigate "the causes and responsibilities for the gas explosion" was blocked by the Senate.

The committee will take evidence in Perth and major regional centres in WA.

It is due to report back to the Senate by October 14 this year.