Characterisation of fuel contaminated soil and groundwater in South Australia

The scale and cost of assessments and remediation of fuel contaminated soils and groundwater is influenced by many factors including the site history, the site geology and hydrogeology, the legislative environment, local land use and the future use of the land. Many of the geological and hydrogeological conditions in South Australia are somewhat unique to the state. In particular the shallow soils, which are arid climate soils, possess characteristics which set them apart from many of the soils in the more populated, wetter eastern states. South Australia’s dry climate also creates a high demand for good quality groundwater. In addition to unique natural conditions, South Australia has its own laws pertaining to environmental issues. This paper discussed some of the key geological and legislative factors which influence fuel contamination assessment and remediation projects in South Australia.