Assumption about BHP Billiton Ltd’s move on Woodside Petroleum Ltd after Royal Dutch Shell sold last year part of its share in the company, was proven by West Australian leader Colin Barnett.

Reports for a number of weeks declare BHP Billiton Ltd intends to buy 24 percent of the Perth-based oil and gas company and to launch a full conquest bid for Woodside.

Shell still holds a 24 per cent investment in Woodside but appears to be looking for an opportunity to divest its shares. This after Shell sold a third of its holding in Woodside in an contract with investment bank UBS AG.

Barnett disclosed to the Australian Petroleum Production and Exploration Association’s annual conference audience that he is aware of BHP Billiton’s takeover of Woodside.

"I am aware that there have been discussions of the issue in the media. I am also directly aware of those talks,” Barnett told the reporters.

“I am not an advocate or defendant of Woodside. It is a company that the state government works closely with,” explained further when he declared strong opposition to BHP Billiton Ltd’s invasion of Woodside after the energy giant has taken hold of the latter’s 34 per cent shares.

"I don't care what happens to the 34 per cent particularly, but I urge you 'hands off Woodside," Barnett emphasized.

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