In response to a question on notice in parliament Natural Resource Minister Dr Anthony Lynham confirmed Adani did not pay for its license to take 12.5 billion litres of water from the Suttor River by July 1 due date, and had in fact been granted a 12-month extension.

"Despite drought conditions the Queensland Government are continuing to give preferential treatment to Adani, essentially giving them an option on the water even though they haven't paid for the licence" Mackay Conservation Group spokeswoman Maggie McKeown said.

Lock the Gate spokeswoman Ellie Smith said the Queensland government had always said it would hold Adani to the highest standards and strictest conditions.

"Adani continues to claim they are on track to start this mine and blame others for...