Queensland has ushered through the construction of a $16.5 billion coal mine and rail project in the state’s resource-rich Galilee Basin.
Although subject to environmental approvals, the Carmichael Coal Mine and Rail project will see a new 60 million tonne coal mine and connecting rail freight link built 160 kilometres north west of the town of Clermont.
All coal from the site, which has been described as having the potential of becoming Australia’s largest coal mine, would be transported an a new private rail line owned by Adani which would connect to Aurizon rail infrastructure near Moranbah.
Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Jeff Seeney said: “This project has the potential to be the largest coal mine in Australia and one of the largest in the world.
“Our government identified resources as one of the four key pillars of the state’s economy and promised at the election to grow the sector for the benefit of all Queenslanders.
“The project proposes a combination of open-cut and underground coal mining and is forecast to produce 60 million tonnes of thermal coal per annum for export. It is expected to generate over $500 million annually in direct and indirect benefits to Queensland’s economy during construction and $3 billion at full export capacity.”
Adani Group chairman Gautam Adani said: “We remain committed to delivering the multi-billion dollar project, with world class standards, which will directly employ thousands of people during construction and over the operational period.”
