UXO Site Information


For the purposes of the information supplied here unexploded ordnance (UXO) is any explosive ordnance (ammunition, bomb grenade, torpedo etc) that has failed to function as intended. Explosive ordnance (EO) that has functioned yet contains residual explosive or chemical warfare agent is normally treated as UXO. Derelict or discarded explosive ordnance is also treated similarly to UXO. What is UXO?

As a result of military training and live firing undertaken by Australian and Allied forces there are many areas throughout Australia not controlled by the Commonwealth, which may be subject to residual UXO contamination. In accordance with Commonwealth policy, the Department of Defence has undertaken to identify and record sites where there is potential for such contamination. Commonwealth Policy

The role of the Defence Property Services, National UXO Office is to gather and disseminate information that will assist in the safe management of land in Australia that may be subject to UXO contamination. This Internet site is designed to provide general information and advice regarding the potential for particular areas of land being contaminated with UXO.

Information included here is drawn from a range of sources. These include the following:

  1. Australian Army Explosive Ordnance Incident Reports (EOIR's) and Explosive Ordnance Disposal Reports (EODR's);


  2. Current and recently archived Defence files;


  3. Commonwealth Gazettes, Unit War Diaries and other records;


  4. Field investigation surveys; and


  5. Other government agencies.

The Commonwealth cannot warrant the completeness of the information contained in these sources, or guarantee that they are the only possible sources.

UXO contamination site data for Western Australia is provided by the Fire and Emergeny Service Authority of WA, and copyright is owned by the State of Western Australia.

Sites which are known or suspected of having been used for military activity are categorised according to the assessed potential for UXO contamination on that site. If appropriate, sites have been divided into assessment zones. Assessments of residual UXO potential will refer to substantial, slight or other levels. Land parcels within designated assessment zones retain their assessment unless they have been appropriately investigated or remediated. Site assessments reported here do not necessarily reflect any UXO investigations or remediations of land parcels that have been conducted on behalf of any person or organisation other than Defence. Where is UXO?

Defence's Categorisation criteria and UXO Warning and Advice are available here including Defence's recommendations to State and Local Authorities.