This paper presents a critical review of literature on bore and well failure mechanisms and rates, and conceptualisations of probable reservoir-aquifer failure pathways. The objective was to gain a better understanding about bore and well induced inter-aquifer connectivity and the potential consequences to groundwater resources. This comprehensive review included Australian and international literature on onshore conventional oil and gas wells, water bores, coal seam gas wells and coal exploration bores. Failure mechanisms and rates were discussed for the entire well life cycle. Reservoir-aquifer failure pathways were then conceptualised based on the failure mechanisms and risk analyses considering the likelihood of failure and detection, repair and potential impacts on hydrogeology.