Safe removal of individuals from offshore gas facility

This is a joint media release between the Australian Border Force, WA Police, National Offshore Petroleum Safety and Environmental Management Authority (NOPSEMA).

A multi-agency operation has resulted in two men, aged 48 and 52, being charged with interfering with offshore petroleum installations or operations, contrary to section 603 of the Offshore Petroleum and Greenhouse Gas Storage Act 2006, an offence carrying a maximum penalty of 10 years' imprisonment.

The charges follow the alleged unlawful access of an offshore gas platform located approximately 375 kilometres off Exmouth. The men were safely removed from the platform and transported to Western Australia.

The operation was completed without injury and demonstrated the close collaboration between government agencies and industry partners to ensure the safety of all involved.

Offshore petroleum facilities operate in inherently complex and potentially hazardous environments. Unauthorised access is unlawful and can place both trespassers and workers at significant risk.

The individuals are due to appear before the Karratha Magistrates Court on Monday, 19 October 2026.

Investigations into the circumstances of the incident are continuing.