Investigations and findings

In October 2018, Defence completed detailed investigations into per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contamination on and around HMAS Stirling. The investigations found that exposure risks to people, plants and animals were low.

The investigations also found there is no significant impact to the ecology of Garden Island and surrounding environment. More details on Defence’s risk assessment can be found in the Detailed Site Investigation and Ecological Risk Assessment factsheets located in the ‘Document archives’ section below.

Remediation and management

Defence’s management plan for responding to PFAS contamination at HMAS Stirling was informed by the outcomes of the investigations. The management plan did not recommend treating or removing PFAS from the area. This approach reflects the low risk identified during the investigations.

Ongoing monitoring

Monitoring of PFAS continues on and around HMAS Stirling through sampling of groundwater, pore water, surface water and sediment.

Monitoring helps Defence understand if PFAS contamination is changing over time.

Results are published in an Ongoing Monitoring Report and factsheet. Defence will inform the community if changes to the management approach are required.

Recent factsheets and reports

Reports and factsheets from the PFAS Investigation and Management Program are available to download. All website links and contact details in these documents were correct at the time of publication, but may change over time. To discuss these reports contact pfas.enquiry@defence.gov.au.

Document archive

The document archive contains information that Defence has published about the management of PFAS, including older community presentations, investigation reports, risk assessments and factsheets.

Some archive information has been superseded by the recent reports and factsheets.

Documents Archive - Stirling (PDF, 210.38 KB)

Last review: 15 December 2025