Project: ARC Pipeline
Client: Senex Energy (Senex)
2017 – Ongoing
Senex is developing its Atlas gas fields near Wandoan, Queensland, primarily to supply the domestic market. As part of this development, Senex recently constructed the 50+ km ARC Pipeline, connecting the Atlas gas fields to Reedy Creek.
The challenge
To meet regulatory requirements, Senex urgently needed to secure an offset to acquit Matters of National Environmental Significance (MNES), including habitat for the koala, greater glider, and glossy black cockatoo.
Ausecology was engaged to:
- Identify and secure a suitable offset property.
- Develop the Offset Management Plan (OMP).
- Lead OMP negotiations and discussion with the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water ( DCCEEW)
Comprehensive surveys
Ausecology undertook a comprehensive due diligence process to identify potential offset properties for the ARC Pipeline. Several properties were shortlisted based on their potential to meet MNES offset requirements. High-level on-site assessments were conducted in collaboration with landholders to confirm habitat values, species records, and regulated vegetation, applying local ecological knowledge to inform recommendations provided to Senex.
Following Ausecology’s high-level due diligence and site assessments, Senex proceeded with a property purchase. Ausecology was then engaged to develop the OMP and conduct further detailed ecological surveys for habitat quality scoring and to confirm the presence of:
- Greater gliders on and adjacent to the property.
- Koalas on and adjacent to the property.
- Glossy black cockatoos on the property.
Fast and effective negotiation
Ausecology successfully negotiated the OMP approval with DCCEEW. The offset was found, assessed, negotiated, secured, and approved within approximately nine months.
Ausecology is now actively implementing the OMP, including:
- Firebreak, fencing, access track installation, and maintenance.
- Installation of nest boxes for glossy black cockatoos (Cockatubes®).
- Installation of greater glider nest boxes.
- Initial camera trapping for fauna pest species.
The outcome
Ausecology suggessfully identified, secured, and implemented a strategic offset for the Senex ARC Pipeline, ensuring compliance with Federal and State environmental regulations.
The project resulted in the protection of critical habitat for greater gliders, koalas, and glossy black cockatoos, with conservation attentions including firebreak installation, nestbox placement, and fauna monitoring implemented prior to construction commencement. The OMP was approved within nine months of the primary approval, demonstrating an efficient regulatory process.
Through Ausecology’s expertise and strategic approach, Senex successfully fulfilled its offset obligations for the ARC Pipeline while achieving meaningful conservation outcomes.
The project stands as a best-practice example of efficient offset identification, acquisition, and implementation, balancing regulatory compliance with biodiversity enhancement.