Paediatricians and federal independent MP Monique Ryan are urging the Northern Territory (NT) government to withdraw its support for a full-scale fracking industry.

In a letter addressed to NT Chief Minister Natasha Fyles, 45 medical specialists, all of whom have worked in the NT, have outlined the need for the government to reassess the health costs associated with fracking and prioritise urgent climate action. 

The letter highlighted the warning from the United Nations secretary-general about the impending climate disaster. 

It also underscored the health risks posed by extreme environmental conditions resulting from global warming, such as cyclones and floods.

Dr Ryan noted that it is unusual for paediatricians to engage in political action. 

The letter's author, Louise Woodward, expressed her disbelief that a new fossil fuel project would be initiated amidst growing climate concerns, stating that the recommendation from the UN was to refrain from opening any new coal and gas ventures. 

The paediatricians' letter referred to studies conducted in the US, where children living near fracking operations demonstrated higher rates of low birth weight, birth defects, childhood cancers, and respiratory conditions.

According to Dr Paul Bauert, toxins released through fracking fluids are likely responsible for these health defects, potentially contaminating soil, water, and the atmosphere. 

In response, Chief Minister Natasha Fyles has defended the onshore shale gas industry, stating that it was subject to the world's strongest regulations. 

She also highlighted the strengthened water regulations and monitoring requirements implemented by the NT government. 

David Slama, NT director of the oil and gas lobby group APPEA, echoed this sentiment, affirming that health concerns were thoroughly addressed in the Pepper Inquiry and that strict controls were in place to safeguard air and water quality.