Apache have contracted a semi-submersible rig from Diamond Offshore to drill the Levitt-1 exploration well in the northern Carnarvon Basin.
Karoon Gas Australia said it had been advised by the operator of the move which will see the Ocean America rig used to drill in the exploration permit WA-484-P.
The Levitt-1 exploration well is expected to spud during May 2015.
Apache is responsible for 90% of the cost of the Levitt-1 exploration well following the farm-put of a 50% equity interest in the permit to the company last year.
The total cost to Apache is estimated to be around $70million.
The drilling of the Levitt prospect represents a significant milestone for Karoon and is the first exploration target to be drilled by the joint venture in the new exploration permit covering 13,539kilometres.
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