Santos Hunter Gas Pipeline Project

If your property is along the proposed route of the Santos Hunter Gas Pipeline, you may be impacted by one of the biggest new energy infrastructure projects in Australia. 833km from Queensland to New South Wales, the pipeline goes through Narrabri, Gunnedah, Liverpool Plains, and the Upper Hunter, affecting many rural and semi-rural landowners.

Compulsory acquisition for projects of this size can be stressful, but with the right advice, you can protect your rights and get fair compensation.

The Santos Hunter Gas Pipeline is a planned underground natural gas link from the Wallumbilla Gas Hub in Queensland to Newcastle and Sydney. It will also transport hydrogen and be a key energy supplier for eastern Australia.

The project involves:

• • 833 km of underground transmission pipeline
  • Easements across private rural and semi-rural properties
  • Regional offtake points along the corridor
  • Ongoing maintenance and access requirements
  • Restrictions on land use and reduced property value

For many landowners, this will mean negotiated easements or compulsory acquisition.

Compulsory acquisition is when the government or authorised developer takes private land for public infrastructure projects, like this pipeline. While the process is legal, it can have big impacts on property owners.

The steps are:

1. 1. Notification – You get formal notice that your land is required.
   2. Valuation – Independent assessments are done on your property and entitlements.
   3. Negotiation – The acquiring authority makes an initial offer, which you can contest.
   4. Compensation and Settlement – Agreed compensation is paid, and ownership or easements are transferred.
   5. Dispute Resolution – If no agreement is reached, mediation or court proceedings may follow.

Knowing your rights at each stage is key to protecting your interests.

If your property is affected by the Santos Hunter Gas Pipeline, our team can assist you through the acquisition process:

• • Clear Guidance – Explain the process and your rights step by step.
  • Maximise Compensation – Get your fair market value plus any additional entitlements.
  • Negotiation and Advocacy – Represent you in discussions with acquiring authorities.
  • Dispute Support – Mediation or litigation if compensation is disputed.

Property acquisition for big energy projects can be complicated and overwhelming, but you don’t have to go it alone. Contact us today for expert advice and get the compensation you’re entitled to.

Navigating compulsory acquisition can be daunting, but we’ve helped numerous property owners and businesses affected achieve favourable results.

Deep Expertise: Hones Lawyers specialise in compulsory acquisition cases across NSW.

Proven Results: Our team has secured maximum compensation for clients affected.

Compassionate Support: We understand the disruption and stress this process can bring and are here to lighten the burden.

To help property owners better understand their rights, we host webinars that cover key aspects of the process and provide actionable insights – register your interest below.

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