Ann: STO:Significant Pavo oil discovery near Dorado development, page-37

I think your over thinking it, so far the association with Santos has been amicable. With Santos wanting to sell down there share of the partnership, so why would there want to a start spending in such a high handed manner. Judge others on what they do not what they say is a proven motto.
Plus there is a longer term outlook that they might be considering. CVN has a number of blocks all 100% owned thus far if Santos wants to be in the box seat if any of these turn out to be highly prospective with possible big rewards they won't be short sighted now.

Ps....sometimes you have to read the whole conversation.