Michaelia Cash (WA, Liberal Party, Minister for Small and Family Business) Share this | Hansard source

Again, Senator Hanson-Young, you will not be surprised that I am going to reject the entire premise of your question. Minister Canavan is incredibly well informed when it comes to these issues. In particular, his concerns, obviously, are for the drilling of oil in the Great Australian Bight. But, as I have stated, 13 wells have been drilled in the region since 1972 without incident.

You made some comments previously in relation to Equinor. I am advised Equinor is currently preparing its environment plan for its proposed drilling campaign in the Great Australian Bight. Senator Hanson, you may wish to note that before any drilling can occur, and before you make any other statements that are misleading, Equinor has to submit the plan to Australia's independent regulator, NOPSEMA, for assessment and approval.