The offshore oil regulator has been criticised for recent approvals.

The National Offshore Petroleum Safety and Environmental Management Authority (NOPSEMA) is facing criticism for not disclosing reasons behind its recent approval of seismic blasting and drilling for Woodside's $16.5 billion Scarborough gas project in northern Western Australia.

Despite the Federal Court overturning NOPSEMA’s earlier approval due to inadequate consultation, the regulator granted approval for up to 10 wells, allowing Woodside to start drilling on December 13.

The Environmental Defenders Office, representing traditional custodian Raelene Cooper, has expressed concern over NOPSEMA’s lack of transparency, emphasising the absence of published statements of reasons for either decision.

Woodside has already begun seismic testing, scheduled for completion by December 31, raising concerns about potential environmental impacts.

NOPSEMA has defended its decision, citing a “lengthy and rigorous” assessment process. 

However, concerns persist about the lack of transparency, as a statement of reasons can be requested, but the regulator has 28 days to publish it.

Woodside, facing legal challenges akin to Santos' Barossa project, drew criticism from over 30 organisations urging the federal government to strengthen Nopsema's regulations.

Greenpeace activists recently protested at Woodside's Perth headquarters, highlighting concerns about the company's impact on climate, wildlife, and marine ecosystems.

Woodside responded by affirming its commitment to the global energy transition, pledging to incorporate energy efficiency measures in the Scarborough project and align operations at the Pluto facility with net-zero targets by 2050.

As legal battles delay major offshore gas projects, environmental advocates stress the urgency of reinforcing regulatory measures for responsible industry practices.