Eyre Peninsula Desalination Plant

Mr TELFER (Flinders) (14:52): My question is to the Minister for Climate, Environment and Water. Has SA Water used or are they planning to use seismic testing as part of their process for a desalination plant ability at Billy Lights Point at Port Lincoln? If so, does the minister have concerns about any potential impacts on the local environment and aquaculture activities?

The Hon. S.E. CLOSE (Port Adelaide—Deputy Premier, Minister for Industry, Innovation and Science, Minister for Defence and Space Industries, Minister for Climate, Environment and Water) (14:53): I think a very similar question was asked in the last sitting week of parliament, and I undertook to take that question on notice. People may be aware that a small amount of seismic testing was undertaken as part of doing the bathymetric assessment for what the seabed is like as part of designing the plant. If I took the question literally, I would say that, as part of the operation of the plant, the way that the plant will operate, seismic testing is not necessary, but it is part of the assessment. It was concluded some time ago, though whether there is more to be planned, I don't know. But I am happy to take that on notice.