The Minister for Resources, Energy and Tourism, Martin Ferguson, today directed his Department to immediately call out the NT Designated Authority and the National Offshore Petroleum Safety Authority to carry out their responsibilities under offshore petroleum legislation and extend every possible assistance to respond to today's fire at Montara.Geoscience Australia has been placed on standby to provide technical advice.
Anthony Albanese, Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, has also instructed the Australian Maritime Safety Authority to provide its full support to the response effort.
Fire broke out on the West Atlas drilling rig and the Montara wellhead platform after the West Triton successfully intercepted the leaking well this morning.Well kill operations were under way at the time, but have now been suspended.Non-essential personnel are being evacuated from the West Triton.Current operations are focussed on reducing the intensity of the fire.
Minister Ferguson said, "The Government remains deeply concerned about this incident.From day one our top priorities have been the safety of people and the protection of the environment.Stopping the flow of oil and gas safely and as soon as possible remains our prime objective.
"I am advised that all personnel on the West Triton and other vessels involved in the response to this incident are safe.It is of absolute importance that we keep them safe.
"Some of the world's leading experts are working to fix the leaking well and respond to this latest problem.
"I am seeking regular advice on this matter from PTTEP, my department, Geoscience Australia and NOPSA, as well as some of the best minds and most experienced hands in the industry.I am advised that the technical approach being taken and the resources being applied to control the well and stop the flow of oil and gas are the safest and best available."