Question Time AU

General Debate

Gas Industry

Senate · Thursday 4 September 2025

Official Hansard for this day (APH) · Read this debate on OpenAustralia

At a glance

Senator Larissa Waters moved a motion to debate the use of a leaking methane storage tank at the Darwin LNG site, arguing the federal government should halt the Barossa gas field approval until repairs are made. Minister Tim Ayres responded that the facility is onshore and regulated by the Northern Territory government, stating the tank is currently not in operation and refurbishment works are underway. Senator Slade Brockman moved that the question be put. The motion to suspend standing orders was defeated, and the motion to end the debate was passed.

Outcome

The motion to suspend standing orders was defeated 26-12, and the motion to end the debate was passed 27-11.

Summary in reported speech - not a transcript. AI-generated, so check the official record before quoting.

How the debate unfolded

Opened the debate

Larissa Waters (QLD) (Australian Greens) Greens

Waters argued that the federal government must ensure no gas flows from the Barossa project into the leaking tank until it is repaired, citing health risks and climate impacts. Waters claimed the government was prioritising Santos's financial interests over environmental safety, noting the company had decided against repairs due to cost. Waters asserted that while the Commonwealth lacks direct jurisdiction over the tank, it holds power over the gas field approval and should use this leverage to prevent methane emissions.

Government response

Tim Ayres (Minister for Industry and Innovation; Minister for Science) ALP NSW

Ayres stated that the Darwin LNG plant is an onshore facility regulated by the Northern Territory government, not NOPSEMA. Ayres noted that the tank is currently not in operation, has an approved safety case, and is undergoing refurbishment ahead of a licence renewal on 18 September. Ayres emphasised that the government acts within its legislative powers and urged Santos to cooperate with the Northern Territory regulator.

Votes during this debate

Division 17: Gas Industry Passed 26–12 Division 18: Gas Industry Not passed 11–27