Site Investigation
- Nation Partners is the contaminated land specialist leading the Program investigation at Cairns Airport.
- The Program investigation at Cairns Airport commenced in January 2026.
- The investigation will examine potential sources of PFAS contamination at the airport, as well as possible migration pathways to receptors both on and off the airport site.
- An accredited contaminated land auditor from Australian Environmental Auditors, has been engaged by the department to independently audit the investigation to ensure compliance with relevant regulations, national guidance and best practice.
- To support the review of key investigation reports and plans, an Investigation Consultation Forum (ICF) will be formed. The ICF members will include the department, the contaminated land specialist, the accredited contamination land auditor, the Airport and relevant state agencies.
- The department is consulting with Airservices Australia to understand works already underway and avoid duplication, where possible.
- Participation in the Program is voluntary. Cairns Airport formalised its involvement by signing a Memorandum of Understanding with the Department on 30 June 2025.
Image
Where is the Investigation up to?
- The Cairns Investigation is currently undertaking a Preliminary Site Investigation (PSI) and data gap assessment.
Next Steps
- The PSI and data gap assessment will inform the need for further investigations and/or development of a management plan.
Additional Information
- The proposed investigation and assessment will consider and complement ongoing investigation by Airservices Australia to assess PFAS contamination within their leased areas.
- Answers to other questions on PFAS and the PFAS Airports Investigation Program, can be found on our website at PFAS – your questions answered.
Contact Information
- Enquiries can be sent to CairnsPFAS@infrastructure.gov.au
Last updated 30 March 2026