Alcoa Accused of Blocking Scrutiny Over Perth's Drinking Water Safety
Conservation groups have accused the US mining giant Alcoa of obstructing oversight of its bauxite mining operations in Western Australia's northern jarrah forests, following the release of documents showing water inspectors were denied access to key sites. The Water Corporation, responsible for Perth's water supply, expressed frustration that new fencing installed by Alcoa in 2025 blocked rangers from conducting essential inspections in 12 public drinking water catchments.
Documents Reveal Access Issues and Information Gaps
According to briefing documents obtained by the WA Forest Alliance under freedom of information laws, the Water Corporation raised concerns throughout 2025 that Alcoa's fencing prevented monitoring of potential threats to Perth's drinking water. Rangers were shut out, requiring new safety training and vehicle modifications to regain access, as noted in a February report. By August, inspectors still faced difficulties, prompting the corporation to escalate the issue with Alcoa executives.
Further documents indicate that the Water Corporation no longer receives Alcoa's mining plans due to a government restructure, hampering its ability to plan risk mitigation. The energy and economic diversification department stopped sharing these plans, while the water and environment regulation department declined direct technical advice offers. Although both departments claim close collaboration with agencies, the Water Corporation stated this change constrained its oversight capabilities.
High Risks to Water Supply Highlighted
A study by engineering consultancy GHD found that Alcoa's expansion plans pose a high risk to the water supply for Perth's 2.3 million residents. The WA Forest Alliance warned that the lack of oversight is alarming, with inspections critical for ensuring safe drinking water for hundreds of thousands of Western Australians. Jason Fowler, a senior campaigner, urged the Cook government to ensure full access to monitor Alcoa's activities and heed expert advice on contamination threats.
Responses from Alcoa and Authorities
An Alcoa spokesperson defended the company's record, stating that in over 60 years of operation, it has never negatively impacted Perth's drinking water and is committed to protecting supplies. They highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen relationships with the Water Corporation through data sharing, participation in the Independent Technical Advisory Group, and site visits.
A Water Corporation spokesperson acknowledged engaging with Alcoa to address access concerns and ensure timely data sharing, emphasizing continued monitoring of mining near catchments. The state government affirmed that the Water Corporation provides robust advice via the technical advisory group, though documents reveal that when plans were accessed via the health department, they were deemed insufficient to assess potential impacts fully.
The situation underscores ongoing tensions between industrial activities and environmental safeguards in WA, with calls for improved transparency and regulatory oversight to protect vital water resources.
