In Western Australia, the redevelopment of brownfield sites presents unique opportunities and challenges. One such challenge is remediation, a necessary step in transforming contaminated land into safe, functional spaces..
Our team have been implementing contaminated land management programs for nearly 15 years. We keep constant track of new developments in regulations and technology, ensuring that our plans keep projects running safe, compliant and on time.
This article explores key remediation strategies tailored to the unique environmental and regulatory landscape of Western Australia. If you would like to speak with a member of our team, you can contact us at sam@westsoilandwater.com.au or call 0424 021 264.
In Western Australia, brownfield sites are often marked with the legacy of industrial, commercial of agricultural activities. These activities may have contaminated soil and groundwater with hydrocarbons, heavy metals or other contaminants.
The Contaminated Sites Act 2003 and associated guidelines mandate that, before development, brownfield sites are subject to investigation, assessment and any necessary remediation. This ensures that human and environmental health are preserved during future use.
A longstanding and traditional method, this involves removing contaminated soil and transporting it to licensed disposal facilities. While effective, it can be costly and may not be sustainable for large-scale projects.
In-situ remediation treats contamination without excavation or removal. Techniques include:
Bioremediation: Using microorganisms to degrade organic contaminants.
Chemical Oxidation: Injecting oxidants to break down pollutants.
Phytoremediation: Using plants to absorb or stabilise contaminants.
These methods are often more sustainable and cost-effective, especially for widespread or inaccessible contamination.
When removal isn’t feasible, containment strategies like capping with clean soil or impermeable barriers can prevent exposure to contaminants. While this approach is appropriate for sites with low-risk contamination levels, it may not be suited to more significant contaminations.
Soil washing separates contaminants from soil particles, while stabilisation binds contaminants to prevent leaching. It is important to note that these methods are suited to specific contaminants and soil types and should only be pursued following thorough investigation.
MNA employs natural processes to reduce contaminant concentrations over time. Paired with regular monitoring, this method is a viable option for low-risk sites.
The most appropriate remediation method for your project will depend on several site-specific factors. They include the type and concentration of contaminants, how widespread the contamination is and the intended future use of the land. For example, residential redevelopment may require full soil removal, while industrial use might allow for containment.
Other factors to consider include the site’s physical conditions (soil type, groundwater depth, site access) and cost and time constraints. At West Soil & Water, our team can assist you in evaluating these variables and developing a remediation plan that is effective, compliant and aligned with project goals.
Whatever method you may choose, remediation efforts must align with Western Australian legislation and guidelines. Important documents to consider include:
Contaminated Sites Act 2003
Contaminated Sites Regulations 2006
National Environment Protection (Assessment of Site Contamination) Measure 1999 (ASC NEPM)
Department of Water and Environmental Regulation guidelines
Proper brownfields development can revitalise communities and spark urban growth. Here in Western Australia, we have the examples to prove it:
East Perth Redevelopment – Former industrial and railway land transformed into mixed-use precincts
Wungong Urban Water Project (Armadale) – Contaminated agricultural land integrated into residential planning with managed wetlands
Midland Railway Workshops – Historic rail yards remediated and adapted for commercial, civil and public health uses
Subiaco Oval Precinct – Soil remediation enabled the development of a public high school
These examples demonstrate how contaminated land, when properly assessed and treated, can be safely reintegrated into thriving urban environments.
Effective treatment of brownfield sites requires an approach tailored to site-specific conditions and aligned with regulatory requirements. With appropriate remediation methods, stakeholders can transform contaminated lands into valuable assets, contributing to sustainable urban development and community well-being.
At West Soil & Water, we combine our years of experience in Western Australia with a thorough understanding of regulations to create purposeful and effective treatment plans.
If you are interested in brownfield services or contaminated land treatment, please contact West Soil & Water at sam@westsoilandwater.com.au or call 0424 021 264.