CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2015
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net earnings (loss)	$ 1,373	$ 1,213	$ (1,488)	$ (943)
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Foreign currency translation adjustments, net of taxes of $0	(3)	132	113	(1,047)
Retirement plans - amortization of accumulated other comprehensive loss into net periodic benefit cost, net of taxes of $0	50	26	127	79
Total other comprehensive income (loss)	47	158	240	(968)
Total comprehensive income (loss)	1,420	1,371	(1,248)	(1,911)
Less: Comprehensive income attributable to non-controlling interests	598	242	754	570
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Barnwell Industries, Inc.	$ 822	$ 1,129	$ (2,002)	$ (2,481)