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The Albanese government has taken a key step towards addressing per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contamination at Defence sites, announcing the establishment of a national co-ordinating body for the “forever chemicals”.
Assistant Minister for Defence, Peter Khalil, will oversee the new body alongside NSW Minister for the Environment Penny Sharpe, with an initial focus on affected sites in NSW.
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Over the next 12 months, the national coordination body will broaden its scope to include other states and territories. Ministers from across Australia will be invited to nominate representatives to join the body and participate in its oversight.
As the national framework develops, ministers Khalil and Sharpe will also work closely with government representatives to set up the first community-based working group at RAAF Base Williamtown. The group will aim to maintain momentum on PFAS-related issues in the local area.
Khalil said: “Communities affected by PFAS contamination need action. That’s why we’re moving quickly to establish the national coordinating body and the first working group in Williamtown.
The inaugural working group will include representatives from Defence, the Worimi Local Aboriginal Land Council, Port Stephens Council, and the NSW government. Members of the Williamtown community are also invited to participate, with expressions of interest now open.
These initiatives mark a significant step in addressing the concerns of communities affected by PFAS contamination and improving the management and oversight of PFAS remediation across the country.
Khalil added: “The independent review showed that a working group is the best way to respond to community concerns and deliver meaningful reform for those impacted. The national coordinating body will support the Williamtown Working Group, ensuring all levels of government work together to address the issues raised by locals.”
The creation of the national coordinating body and the Williamtown Working Group responds to key recommendations from the government’s December 2024 response to the independent review of land uses around Defence bases impacted by PFAS.
Defence is also progressing work to inform the Williamtown Working Group on drainage management options for areas south of RAAF Base Williamtown, a practical step towards addressing community concerns.
The expression of interest process to join the Williamtown Working Group opened earlier this week and will close on Friday, 3 October 2025. Community members interested in joining can complete an application form.
“As representatives from other states and territories join the national body, I look forward to working with their ministers to make sure people living in PFAS-affected areas get the support they need,” Khalil said.
