Greens to seek appeal on KI coast exploration permit

The Australian Greens will explore avenues to appeal a decision allowing seismic testing off the coast of Kangaroo Island.

The application by Canadian company Bight Petroleum to conduct seismic testing as a precursor to oil and gas drilling has been approved by NOPSEMA, despite strong community opposition.

Australian Greens Senator for South Australia Penny Wright said she would explore avenues for appeal when further documents are released.

"Bight Petroleum's previous documentation has shown a disdain for science and a disdain for the local community," Senator Wright said.

"When the summary of their environmental plan is released in the coming days, we'll know if there are grounds to appeal."

Senator Wright has been campaigning with the Kangaroo Island community to protect its oceans from seismic testing since exploration was first mooted more than two years ago.

"Seismic testing will threaten Kangaroo Island's fishing industry and put more SA jobs at risk by threatening eco-tourism to the island," she said.

Senator Wright also condemned the lack of transparency under Prime Minister Tony Abbott's new environmental approvals process.

"Kangaroo Island is precious to all South Australians and famous around the world, yet under Tony Abbott's tick-and-flick environment scheme, the community doesn't get to have a say."