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Australian Energy Producers Journal Australian Energy Producers Journal Society
Journal of Australian Energy Producers
 

Business Performance and Governance Visual Presentation B01: Navigating economic headwinds: proven strategies for durable cost reduction in oil and gas

Scott Hastie A *
+ Author Affiliations
- Author Affiliations

A dss+, Perth, WA, Australia.




Scott Hastie leads the Oil, Gas and New Energy practice at dss+. With over 20 years of experience leading complex transformation programs, including mergers and acquisitions integrations, he advises energy companies on achieving significant bottom-line results. He is also a respected executive leadership coach, helping leaders drive business transformation. He has led over 30 consulting engagements across Australia, North America and Asia.

* Correspondence to: scott.hastie@consultdss.com

Australian Energy Producers Journal 65, EP24420 https://doi.org/10.1071/EP24420
Published: 19 June 2025

© 2025 The Author(s) (or their employer(s)). Published by CSIRO Publishing on behalf of Australian Energy Producers.

Abstract

Business Performance and Governance Visual Presentation B01

The Australian oil and gas industry faces significant challenges – including ageing assets, regulatory delays, fluctuating market prices, declining production and pressure to achieve net-zero emissions – leading to a strong focus on cost reduction. While cost reduction programs are common, sustained success is rare. Research suggests that only ~10% of such programs maintain results after 3 years. This abstract explores key factors contributing to successful and sustainable cost reduction. It outlines a structured approach, emphasising the importance of aligning cost reduction with strategic objectives, conducting thorough upfront diagnostics, prioritising key initiatives, clarifying accountabilities and embedding robust cost management processes. Drawing on a case study from a global oil and gas company where this approach delivered US$90 million in operational cost reductions and US$20 million in capital expenditure savings, the abstract provides practical guidance on achieving and sustaining significant cost improvements through leadership development, process and systems enhancements, and fostering a culture of operational discipline.

To access the Visual Presentation click on the link on the right. To read the full paper click here

Keywords: ageing assets management, cost optimisation, demand-side cost drivers, energy transition, oil and gas industry Australia, operational efficiency, predictive maintenance, strategic cost management.

Biographies

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Scott Hastie leads the Oil, Gas and New Energy practice at dss+. With over 20 years of experience leading complex transformation programs, including mergers and acquisitions integrations, he advises energy companies on achieving significant bottom-line results. He is also a respected executive leadership coach, helping leaders drive business transformation. He has led over 30 consulting engagements across Australia, North America and Asia.