Fighting for Sea Country
The Tiwi Elder challenging the approval of Santos’ Barossa drilling plan, given by the offshore gas regulator NOPSEMA, is seeking an injunction from the Federal Court to stop the commencement of drilling until his case is heard. This follows concerns that the company plans to push ahead and begin drilling the ocean floor within days.
Last month, Munupi Senior Lawman Dennis Tipakalippa launched a Federal Court challenge with the support of his community to have Santos’ Barossa gas drilling approvals set aside, saying he and his community were never consulted about the drilling plans – contrary to Santos’ legal obligations.
The Federal Court has listed the matter for trial on August 22, 23 and 25. However, Santos has refused to delay the drilling until the Federal Court can fully consider the case, requiring Dennis to seek an injunction from the Federal Court…