In Darwin, a major fuel storage project has stirred debate after the Northern Territory Government confirmed that 11 large tanks on the harbour will operate without formal occupancy certification.
Background to the Project
Known as Project Caymus, the $270 million development was announced in 2021 as part of a US-backed initiative to expand fuel capacity in northern Australia. American company Crowley was awarded the contract to build and manage the facility, which sits on NT Government land. Construction began in early 2022.
Issues With Construction
From the outset, the project has faced criticism. Reports revealed that the tanks were built without the correct permits and questions were raised over their structural integrity, including concerns about cyclone resistance and water leaking into the base. Despite this, independent engineers hired by Crowley have since provided statements confirming compliance with Australian standards and the National Construction Code.
Exemption Granted
The NT Government has now declared that the tanks can operate without the normal certification process. Officials said that while the legislation does not allow permits to be issued retrospectively, the exemption was approved based on engineering reports and reviews from both the NT Fire and Rescue Service and the Environment Protection Authority.
Ongoing Scrutiny
Freedom of Information documents suggest this exemption was in the works for close to a year, with correspondence between the NT Government and Defence Department outlining plans to prepare a report seeking approval. These behind-the-scenes developments have fuelled ongoing concerns about transparency and oversight.
For independent fuel retailers, this case highlights the scale and complexity of projects being developed at a government and international level. While such large facilities may not directly impact day-to-day operations for smaller operators, the story reinforces the importance of compliance, safety, and transparency in any fuel-related business. From site storage tanks to environmental standards, following the correct processes and keeping thorough documentation is essential to avoid future issues.
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