Adani mine a step closer

AUSTRALIA’S bi ggest- ever coal mine is nearer to becoming a reality after the State Government handed over its Abbot Point dredging plans to the Commonwealth for approval.

The State Government last month reached an agreement with Adani to dump dredge spoil on land adjacent to Abbot Point’s existing coal terminal.

The port’s expansion is integral to Adani’s planned $ 16.5 billion coal mine in the Galilee Basin, which would create about 9500 jobs across North Queensland.

State Development and Mines Minister Anthony Lynham said the Government had referred the dredging plans to the Commonwealth for environmental assessment.

“The referral is a significant milestone for the project and demonstrates the Palaszczuk Government’s commitment to supporting business and industry in creating jobs,” he said.

“At the same time, we are keeping our commitment to Queenslanders to not allow dredge spoil dumping on the Great Barrier Reef or in the Caley Valley Wetlands.”

A spokeswoman for Federal Environment Minister Greg Hunt welcomed the State Government’s proposal, saying the amount of dredging was lower than previous proposals.

Adani Australia CEO Jeyakumar Janakaraj said he welcomed the State Government’s commitment to the mine and associated rail and port projects, which represented a $ 21.7 billion investment.

“The referral ensures Adani is one step closer to delivering these substantial economic benefits to our state, as part of its plan to build a long- term future with Queensland,” he said.

Queensland Resources Council chief executive Michael Roche said the news was further evidence of the Labor Government’s commitment to opening up the Galilee Basin.

“Regional communities including Alpha, Clermont, Emerald, Bowen, Moranbah, Mackay, Rockhampton and Townsville are all expected to benefit,’’ he said.

Greenpeace campaigner Shani Tager said the body opposed the dredging plans.

“The biggest long- term threat to the Reef is climate change, and this proposal will see more coal shipped through the Reef and burnt, ultimately driving dangerous climate change,” she said.

“If … the Abbott Government are serious about protecting the Reef, they should stop this project in its tracks.”