• Sales revenue increased 17% to $43.6 million
• Underlying EBITDAX up 43% to $19.6 million
• Statutory net profit after tax of $7.7 million

Central Petroleum Limited (ASX:CTP) has reported a significantly improved financial result for the financial year ending 30 June 2025 (FY2025). Underlying Earnings Before Interest, Tax, Depreciation, Amortisation and Exploration (EBITDAX) increased 43% from the previous year to $19.6 million. After absorbing the costs of exploration activities, finance and depreciation, Central has recognised a statutory net profit after tax of $7.7 million. The company's operational performance in FY2025 was a significant improvement on FY2024, with sales revenue increasing 17% to $43.6 million and underlying profit of $6.5 million compared to FY2024's $1.4 million loss. These financial outcomes were a direct result of several key achievements during the year, including securing new long-term gas contracts with the Northern Territory Government, drilling and commissioning two new production wells at Mereenie, and restructuring and extending the group's loan facility. Central is also announcing its first shareholder returns, through an on-market share buy-back starting in September 2025.

Central's strengthened financial position provides an opportunity to consider multiple pathways for near-term value enhancement, whether through production expansion, targeted exploration, mergers and acquisitions, early debt repayment, or the introduction of sustainable dividends.