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.

Kangaroo Island's community and tourism industry will be jeopardised if federal Environment Minister Greg Hunt fails to block seismic testing off the coast, says Australian Greens Senator for South Australia Penny Wright.

Senator Wright, who has been working with the Kangaroo Island community since the exploration was first mooted two years ago, said Bight Petroleum's report on community concerns was completely inadequate and showed disregard for South Australians.

South Australian senators from the old parties have today voted against protecting South Australia's foremost tourism icon, Kangaroo Island, from oil and gas exploration.

Australian Greens Senator for South Australia Penny Wright said the lack of support for her Senate motion would be a huge disappointment for the hundreds of thousands of South Australians who want to protect the Island.