Santos is committed to partnering with communities to build respectful and mutually beneficial relationships and deliver positive outcomes in the areas where we operate. Our contributions align to our three focus areas: resilient communities, economic pathways, and environment. We prioritise projects that are sustainable and provide lasting benefit to the community.

Community Reference Groups

Santos is establishing three voluntary Community Reference Groups for the Hunter Gas Pipeline (HGP) project.  The purpose of these groups is to provide a forum for ongoing information sharing and dialogue about the project, as part of our commitment to open, transparent and proactive engagement.

Topics for discussion may include, but are not limited to:

• Providing relevant project and company updates
• Discussing community feedback, enquiries and concerns
• Discussing the implementation of relevant project approvals and management plans where applicable
• Consulting on any potential project changes, amendments or modifications where relevant
• Reviewing and discussing the results of any monitoring, reviews or independent audits made publicly available
• Conducting community site visits
• Other topics relevant to the project, as determined by Santos in consultation with group members.

The Community Reference Groups are non-statutory and do not have a decision-making or regulatory function. They will operate in an advisory and consultative capacity only. Responsibility for regulatory compliance remains with Santos and relevant government agencies.

 

Expressions of interest

Santos is now inviting Expressions of Interest from individuals and organisations who would like to be considered for membership of a HGP Community Reference Group. Further information about membership, the selection process and how to apply is provided below.

 

Membership, meetings and governance

The groups are expected to meet in-person in Quirindi, Muswellbrook and Maitland twice a year subject to operational requirements.

Each group will be independently chaired. Membership will comprise a range of local stakeholders, selected to reflect a diversity of interests and perspectives relevant to the project.

A copy of the Community Reference Groups Terms of Reference is available here.

Membership is voluntary and unpaid.

 

About You / Eligibility

Applications are invited from individuals or groups with an interest in the HGP project.  We are seeking representation from a cross-section of the community, with each reference group comprising:

• Local landholders (maximum two (2) representatives)
• Chambers of commerce (maximum two (2) representatives)
• Industry bodies (maximum two (2) representatives)
• Local councils within the project area (maximum two (2) representatives)
• Members of the general community (maximum two (2) representatives).

Submit an Expression of Interest

If you would like to be considered for membership of a HGP Community Reference Group, please complete the form below by 5:00 pm (AEST), Sunday 29 March 2026.

Selection process

Following the close of the Expression of Interest period, Santos will review applications and select members based on the skills, experience and perspectives required for each group, with the aim of achieving a balanced and representative membership. Santos reserves the right to determine final membership numbers and composition.