Earth Resources Regulation has taken action to ensure the safety of redundant coal seam gas wells and infrastructure in Gippsland.
Coal seam gas extraction is banned under Victoria’s Mineral Resources (Sustainable Development) Act.
Eleven coal seam gas wells linked to a former licence will be decommissioned. Earth Resources Regulation has inspected the wells, and none were found to be leaking.
The licensee previously surrendered an exploration licence that allowed it to search for gas on private property near Seaspray.
The former licensee has been issued with three notices setting out the activities required to decommission the wells and rehabilitate the site.
The notices require the appointment of a manager to oversee the rehabilitation of the site and the engagement a suitably qualified contractor to decommission the wells.
Earth Resources Regulation regulates Victorian mines, petroleum and quarry sites to protect public safety and the environment.
Quotes attributable to Earth Resources Regulation Executive Director Anthony Hurst:
“We will continue to work closely with the former licensee and monitor their activity to ensure the stringent safety standards for decommissioning gas wells are met.”
“All operators are accountable for rehabilitating their sites after the completion of resource activities.”
