The final approval of Queensland Coking Coal’s Vulcan South Mine has been confirmed.
Conservation groups knew this mine was to be approved as one of the four coal mines for Christmas “gifts” from our Federal Environment Minister, Tanya Plibersek and this has now been confirmed.
The approval included conditions to minimise the environmental impacts of the project such as limited the clearing to no more than 1167ha of koala habitat, 1057ha of greater glider habitat, 1219ha of squatter pigeon habitat and 71 ha of brigalow.
This brings the number of coal mines approved by the Albanese Government to ten, with one additional project not being assessed under Australia’s environmental legislation, the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act.
Environmental Advocacy in Central Queensland Director Dr Coral Rowston said:
“We are deeply shocked and appalled that a company under criminal investigation for clearing habitat and extracting coal without the necessary approvals is being rewarded with a retrospective green light.
“This sets a dangerous precedent, suggesting that resource companies can bypass legal processes, secure in the belief that they can simply seek approval later if their actions prove profitable or too advanced to reverse.
“Here in Central Queensland, critical threatened species habitat is being destroyed at an alarming rate, while climate emissions continue to rise, driving more frequent and extreme weather events.
“This relatively small coal mine will be devastating for the koalas, greater gliders and squatter pigeons that are reliant on the habitat that will be bulldozed for this coal mine.
“If the government is serious about protecting our climate and environment—the very foundation of our food systems, tourism industry, and future well-being—they cannot continue approving fossil fuel projects.”
Queensland Coking Coal is still awaiting approval for its Vulcan Coal Mine – Matilda Pit and Ancillary Infrastructure project which was to provide for the coal handling, processing and rail transportation for the coal extracted at the Vulcan South Mine.
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