INPEX conducted a social return on investment (SROI) evaluation on the construction and establishment of the North Australian Centre for Oil & Gas (NACOG) facility within the Charles Darwin University (CDU) campus in Darwin, Australia, for which the company and its Ichthys LNG partners committed AU$3 million in 2012 as part of a series of large-scale social investments.

The evaluation found that significant social and economic value has been created. The facility featuring a fully-equipped lecture room and research laboratories has been well received by CDU students and staff. The building’s multi-purpose foyer that accommodates various activities such as group and individual work as well as industry forums was also highly rated as it helps students with their education and increases employment opportunities.

The introduction of a chemical engineering degree has also been directly attributed to the construction of the NACOG facility. The course has so far enrolled 28 students and created several staff positions, and is helping CDU attract more students and employees.

The NACOG facility opened its doors to students in 2013 and is currently being utilized by more than 600 engineering students.