The construction of the mine has the potential to create up to 1600 jobs for Queenslanders and about 1300 ongoing operational jobs, Deputy Premier Jeff Seeney said.

“This is another step forward for the Galilee basin and follows Alpha Coal, Kevin’s Corner, Galilee Coal project and Carmichael Coal mine and rail project receiving both state and federal government approvals.”

If the project proceeds, the South Galilee coal project is 12km southwest of Alpha and about 180km west of Emerald in Central Queensland. It is estimated to have a 33 year operational life.

AMCI is proposing the project will be delivered in three stages. Stage one is the open-cut Epsilon stage where coal will be transported on the Central Western Railway for export through Gladstone. For stages two and three, coal will be transported on a common user railway to Abbot Point.

Seeney said should the project proceed, AMCI was committed to employing local people and was considering a bus-in, bus-out option for employees from Emerald as well as fly-in, fly-out options from other major regional centres.

Seeney said the environmental impact statement for the project was thoroughly assessed by the coordinator-general and he placed 110 conditions to adequately avoid or mitigate potential impacts.

“If the mine proceeds, AMCI must enter into make-good agreements with landholders and undertake groundwater modelling and monitoring,” he said.

“The mine itself will have to incorporate flood protection measures like levee banks and implement a strict mine water management system.”

The Queensland coordinator-general’s evaluation report now goes to the Australian environment minister for a decision on issues pertaining to the Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 under the assessment bilateral agreement.