OIL and gas company Senex Energy has started construction work today on a new natural gas development near Roma.

Senex has awarded the contract to build the Roma North gas processing facility and an associated pipeline to Wasco Australia following a competitive tender.

Wasco has been active in the Roma area since Senex first engaged the business for natural gas construction works in 2016.

Senex managing director and CEO Ian Davies said the contract would benefit the region through employment and business opportunities.

"This contract and early works are further milestones in the development of our gas business in the Surat Basin," he said.

"We are also pleased that the contract has been awarded to a company with established operations in Roma, where Senex will be operating and supporting the community for decades to come."

The contract is expected to create about 50 jobs directly in construction and support further roles at local sub-contractors and Wasco's continuing operations in Roma.

Commissioning of the facility is targeted for the second quarter of 2019.