BUSINESS SEGMENT AND OTHER OPERATIONS DATA - NET FINANCIAL EARNINGS LOSS RECONCILIATION (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Consolidated NFE	$ 49,632	$ 55,109
Less:
Unrealized (gain) on derivative instruments and related transactions	(1,135)	(88,673)
Effects of economic hedging related to natural gas inventory	3,813	(8,765)
Tax adjustments	(1,693)	29,227
NET INCOME	$ 48,647	$ 123,320