Further scrutiny will show the danger of Kangaroo Island drilling plans: Greens

The Australian Greens say closer review of Bight Petroleum’s plans to explore for oil off Kangaroo Island will make it clear the action poses an unacceptable risk to the environment and the Island’s future.

Environment Minister Tony Burke has declared seismic testing off the coast of Kangaroo Island a controlled action, meaning that the project will require appropriate assessment and approval from the Commonwealth Government. 

“Bight Petroleum will have to release all preliminary documentation to the public for scrutiny before any seismic testing can take place,” Senator Rachel Siewert, Australian Greens marine spokesperson said today.

“The public will now have a chance to review the information Bight Petroleum provided in their application and provide feedback.

“From closer review of the impact this project will have on threatened and migratory species and communities, it will be very clear that the exploration and production of oil in this area is unacceptable.

“No one can fully remove the underlying, inherent risks that come with deep-water drilling.

“The Kangaroo Island community relies heavily on tourism and fishing industries and so it is particularly important they have this chance to have their voices heard on this significant decision.

“The Kangaroo Island Canyons and Pool are home to more than 20 species of whales and dolphins, including endangered Southern Right and Blue Whales which breed and feed in the area. There is simply no safe time for oil and gas exploration near Kangaroo Island,” Senator Siewert concluded.