A major mining project earmarked for central Queensland will undergo rigorous assessment, with the state government releasing an environmental impact statement (EIS) for the Alpha Coal development.
The $4.2 billion South Galilee thermal coal project represents significant benefits for the Sunshine State, creating almost 3,000 jobs in Queensland and injecting millions of dollars into the state economy.
State deputy premier and the minister for state development, infrastructure and planning Jeff Seeney said releasing the EIS was the next stage of the approval process, with the public invited to comment on the major mining project.
“The EIS’s release recognises the extent and complexity of the project, but also notes the benefits it may bring and the need to carefully assess all aspects of this proposed project,” Mr Seeney explained.
If the development goes ahead, an open cut and underground mining operation will process up to 17 million tonnes of coal for exporting.
The project, which is expected to have a 33-year lifetime, will also include a mine water management system, on-site accommodation village, mine access roads and coal handling infrastructure.
“The AMCI Alpha Coal joint venture has advised that it will employ around 1,600 people during the two year construction phase of the project and up to 1,290 workers when the mine is operational,” Mr Seeney added.
“Add those jobs to the flow-on jobs that will be created in the regions to service this major project and it’s clear this project (will) bring major employment and economic benefits to Queensland.”
