ExxonMobil Decommissioning Update: Executing the largest Plug and Abandonment program in Australian oil and gas history. 

For over 50 years, Esso Australia has been a trusted energy provider, powering homes, businesses, and industries throughout south-east Australia. Today, as we responsibly retire infrastructure that has reached the end of its productive life, we’re undertaking the largest offshore decommissioning project in ExxonMobil’s global history—right here in Bass Strait.

Central to this effort is our Plug and Abandonment program, which permanently seals wells to prevent any future release of hydrocarbons. To date, we’ve safely plugged and abandoned over 200 offshore wells, using specialised equipment to install cement plugs at depths equivalent to a 20-storey building. These plugs undergo rigorous pressure testing—exceeding ten times the pressure of a standard car tyre—to ensure long-term integrity and environmental protection.

To guide this work, our team developed a first-of-its-kind Well Operations Management Plan, ensuring all plug and abandonment activities meet strict regulatory requirements and adhere to the highest safety standards. This plan draws on ExxonMobil’s global experience managing successful decommissioning campaigns in Canada, the United States, and the North Sea, while also incorporating innovative practices that improve both efficiency and environmental outcomes.

Our Bass Strait well plug and abandonment program is among the largest of its kind globally. The program relies on close collaboration across a multidisciplinary team—including geoscientists, well integrity engineers, reservoir specialists, regulatory experts, and safety, health and environment professionals—working together to ensure each well is retired safely, responsibly, and in full compliance with environmental expectations.

Once all wells have been safely plugged and abandoned, each platform is placed in a safe state until it is ready to be removed and safely transported to Barry Beach Marine Terminal for dismantling.

We remain committed to transparent engagement with our community—keeping stakeholders informed and ensuring our work aligns with local expectations. If you have any questions or would like more information, please don’t hesitate to reach out via consultation@exxonmobil.com.