Qantas Fuel Farm Demolition

Unicivil was engaged by Liberty Industrial to undertake the safe removal of fuel storage infrastructure at the Qantas Fuel Farm, servicing Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport. The project involved the demolition and decommissioning of six underground petroleum storage tanks (USTs) and seven above‑ground storage tanks (ASTs), together with all associated pipework, services and ancillary systems.

Given the site’s proximity to active aviation assets, the project was delivered under stringent airside security requirements, including FOB access controls and procedural clearances. Prior to physical works, Unicivil carried out electronic service location, GPR mapping and utility disconnections to confirm service alignments and subsurface conditions. Continuous atmospheric monitoring using four‑gas detectors ensured that Lower Explosive Limit (LEL) thresholds remained within safe parameters.

Residual hydrocarbons were evacuated and the tanks were degassed using the venturi method. Once atmospheric conditions stabilised within non‑explosive ranges, tanks were certified safe for extraction. Above‑ground tanks were segmented using shear attachments to optimise waste classification, load‑out and off‑site recycling.

Following tank removal, pit sands were excavated and stockpiled separately for environmental sampling. Subgrade walls and floors were tested to confirm contamination boundaries. Impacted soils were excavated and transported to licensed disposal facilities. Excavations were reinstated using certified clean imported fill.

This project demonstrates Unicivil’s capability in high‑risk, high‑security fuel infrastructure demolition, contamination management, and procedural compliance in an operational aviation environment.