The Department of Energy, Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety (DEMIRS) has started legal proceedings against Santos WA Northwest Pty Ltd following a condensate spill at the Varanus Island Marine Terminal on 20 March 2022
The spill occurred during an offloading operation, resulting in the release of around 25,000 litres of condensate into the marine environment.
DEMIRS alleges Santos did not operate its licensed pipeline in a proper and workmanlike manner by failing to prevent the escape of petroleum as required under the Petroleum (Submerged Lands) Act 1982.
In response to the spill, DEMIRS required Santos to strengthen its operational controls by amending the company’s environment plan to reduce the risk of future incidents.
DEMIRS Executive Director of Resource and Environmental Compliance Tyler Sujdovic said the incident underlines the importance of robust, proactive risk management and strict adherence to safety and environmental regulations.
“The benefits of resource extraction must not come at the expense of Western Australia’s long-term environmental sustainability,” Mr Sujdovic said.
“The department will continue to work with industry and local communities to ensure resource projects strike the right balance between extraction and environmental stewardship.”
DEMIRS will not be providing further comment on the case as it is now before the courts.
