Investigations and findings
In May 2019, Defence completed detailed investigations into per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contamination on and around RAAF Base Learmonth.
The investigations found that exposure risks to people, plants and animals were low. Refer to the Western Australia Department of Water and Environmental Regulation for more information.
Remediation and management
Defence’s management plan for responding to PFAS contamination at RAAF Base Learmonth 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 through sampling of groundwater, seepage 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
Detailed reports from the PFAS investigation and management program are available for download. To discuss these reports contact pfas.enquiry@defence.gov.au.
- 2021 Annual Interpretive Report - Factsheet (PDF, 1.39 MB)
- 2021 Annual Interpretive Report (PDF, 31.33 MB)
- Ecological Risk Assessment and Management Area Plan - Factsheet (PDF 437 KB)
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Some archive information has been superseded by the recent reports and factsheets.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 - Learmonth (PDF, 209.34 KB)
Last review: 25 February 2025