Site Investigation
- Procurement of a contaminated land specialist and an accredited site auditor is currently underway.
- The investigation at Cairns Airport is expected to commence in early 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.
- The Department is consulting with Airservices Australia to understand the scope of works currently underway and to avoid duplication, where possible.
- The Department will engage with relevant state agencies to support the review of key investigation reports and plans.
- Participation in the Program is voluntary. Cairns Airport formalised its involvement by signing a Memorandum of Understanding with the Department on 30 June 2025
Where is the Investigation up to?
- Procurement of a contaminated land specialist and an accredited site auditor is currently in progress.
Next Steps
- Once contracts are in place, a Preliminary Site Investigation, including a data gap assessment, will be undertaken.
- The Preliminary Site Investigation will inform the need for further investigations and/or development of a management plan.
Additional Information
- 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 04 November 2025