The $21.7 billion Carmichael coal project has passed a significant milestone with agreements reached with all landholders, State Parliament heard yesterday.
Minister for State Development and Minister for Natural Resources and Mines Dr Anthony Lynham told Parliament that mine proponent Adani now had 16 permits and approvals at local, state and federal level, including six primary approvals.
The port element of the mine, rail and port project, the expansion of the Abbot Point coal port near Bowen, also had progressed, Dr Lynham told the House.
“These latest approvals demonstrate how the Palaszczuk Government continues to work behind the scenes to properly progress these Galilee Basin mine projects,” he said.
“I am advised that Adani has reached agreement on compensation with the remaining landholder.
“My department has advised that it is awaiting confirmation from Adani that the agreement can now be filed in accordance with the Mineral Resources Act. Once that occurs I will be able to consider the application for the mining leases in the same way as for any other project.
“The other milestone the mine, rail and port project has achieved is the last key state-based approval for dredging for the Abbot Point expansion.
“The next step for Abbot Point is for Adani to finalise approvals for the rail in-loading facilities, onshore stockpile yards and offshore wharves and this is now underway.”
Dr Lynham said the progress had been achieved while meeting the Palaszczuk Government’s commitment to protect the Great Barrier Reef.
“I reiterate our election commitment here again today: there will be no dredging at Abbot Point until Adani demonstrates financial closure,” he said.
“Queensland taxpayers will not fund this infrastructure.”
The Carmichael Coal project has faced many challenges during it’s journey towards operation with environmental groups opposing the mine. In February, the project received final environmental authority from the Department of Environment and Heritage Protection.
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