The Albanese Government, in partnership with the NSW Government and Port Stephens Council, has established the Williamtown Working Group (WWG), the first community-based group to be formed under the per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) National Coordinating Body.
As recommended by the Independent PFAS Review of land uses around key Defence bases impacted by PFAS contamination, the WWG will bring together representatives from the community, and across government, to support practical, place-based actions to mitigate PFAS contamination.
Following a public expression of interest process, the following community members have been selected to join the WWG, alongside representatives from the Commonwealth, NSW Government, Port Stephens Council and the Worimi Local Aboriginal Land Council.
- Mr Lindsay Robert Clout
- Mr Justin Scott Hamilton
- Ms Susan Hirsch
- Mr Graeme Boyd
- Ms Meryl Swanson MP
- Ms Kate Washington MP
- Mayor Leah Anderson
- Mr John Maretich
Those selected bring a strong understanding of the local PFAS-related issues that affect the Williamtown area and will provide valuable insights. They each demonstrate a commitment to working constructively with government to identify and implement solutions.
While the WWG will progress local initiatives, including a whole-of-catchment flood action plan, to improve drainage management in areas to the south of RAAF Base Williamtown, the PFAS National Coordinating Body will provide oversight and progress the national approach to combat PFAS contamination.
Through their representatives at both a local and national level, Assistant Minister for Defence, Peter Khalil and NSW Minister for the Environment, Penny Sharpe will continue to work closely to monitor outcomes and advice to progress action.
The WWG will meet for the first time on Thursday, 20 November and, as outlined in the Independent Review, will serve as a pilot to inform further PFAS working groups set to be established in the Northern Territory and Queensland in due course.
