Water scientists and Indigenous custodians are expressing significant concern over Santos's proposal to frack 12 test wells at Tanumbirini Station in the Northern Territory. They fear that the fracking operations could potentially damage a little-understood system of hot springs in the area, which is crucial both ecologically and culturally. According to environmental scientists from Charles Darwin University, this region may not only host vital ecosystems but also holds cultural significance for Indigenous communities, with potential impacts on local wildlife and traditional songlines that are part of Indigenous heritage.

The potential environmental risks have prompted these stakeholders to urge the Northern Territory government to reject Santos's application for the drilling project. The concerns center around the impact of hydraulic fracturing on the surrounding environment, especially its effect on aquifers and the delicate balance of the hot springs system. Indigenous custodians have emphasized the critical importance of preserving the natural landscape that is not only a source of biodiversity but also integral to their cultural identity and heritage.

In response to the concerns raised, Santos has stated their commitment to implementing stringent environmental controls, including a water monitoring program designed to safeguard the surrounding eco-systems. However, the call from scientists and Indigenous representatives for a reassessment highlights the ongoing tension between industrial development and environmental preservation, posing a critical challenge for policymakers in balancing economic interests with ecological and cultural responsibilities in the region.