The presence of existing offshore industries positions Australia well to enhance its decommissioning industry.
For decommissioning activities to be carried out efficiently, an experienced workforce, the right vessels available at the right time, and a culture of safety and environmental stewardship are key requirements.
Workforce
Australia’s domestic workforce exhibits extensive skill and experience in the oil and gas industry. This means that a majority of them can be re-deployed and re-skilled for decommissioning projects supporting Australia’s energy transition. However, the emergence of the renewable sector makes attracting and retaining a workforce significantly challenging.
Vessels
In Australia, vessels are not hosted but instead imported for heavy offshore decommissioning. While the local availability for heavy lift and specialist vessels don’t appear to be a strategic opportunity, the domestic workforce can provide crew and support for these activities.
Infrastructure
Offshore decommissioning will mostly be concentrated in south-east and north-west Australia, with the south-east region hosting significant offshore wind generation in the future. Offshore renewables construction could increase competition for infrastructure and capability, including ports, which requires careful management and coordination.
Waste management and recycling
Australia’s decommissioning industry is well-positioned, with the presence of a domestic recycling industry playing a key role in the waste management phase of offshore decommissioning. However, there are some critical knowledge gaps that need to be addressed. These include innovation on the impact of contaminants on the environment and ecosystems, possibilities to develop new recycling pathways and technologies, and more efficient cleaning and waste management processes.
Research capabilities
Australia’s availability of innovative products and technologies creates an opportunity for global exports to other decommissioning markets. The ability to create new innovative products and services makes Australia a significant contributor to the global decommissioning market.
