A trio of climate activists, identified as Jesse Noakes, Matilda Lane-Rose, and Emil Davey, have received fines for an unsuccessful protest outside the home of Woodside Energy CEO Meg O’Neill in Perth. The incident took place in August 2023, when the activists aimed to express their opposition to Woodside’s environmental practices by arriving with paint and water balloons. They were detained by counter-terrorism police before any vandalism could occur.
Initially charged with conspiracy to commit criminal damage, they ultimately pleaded guilty to attempted unlawful damage and trespass. During sentencing, Chief Magistrate Steven Heath noted their equal involvement in the protest’s planning but acknowledged that targeting O’Neill’s personal residence elevated the seriousness of their actions. Lane-Rose highlighted the disparity in punishments, referencing the $10,000 fine imposed on Santos for an oil spill, questioning who poses a greater threat—a fine for herself or corporate penalties for environmental damage. Each activist was fined $2000, with the court accepting their requests for spent convictions.
The protest was described by O’Neill and WA Premier Roger Cook as a threat to her family. Activists from the group Disrupt Burrup Hub argue that Woodside’s operations will produce significant carbon emissions, prompting their protests. Further sentencing for another group member, Gerard Mazza, is pending.