A recently published interview between Adani CEO Jeyakumar Janakaraj and the Daily Mercury indicated otherwise as it quoted the CEO as saying there was no “other option” but 100% FIFO for Carmichael.

However, a transcript indicated that the line was taken out of context.

“The interview you're referring to saw repeated questions about 100% FIFO- and repeated, clear answers from the company noting no decision has been made,” an Adani spokesman said.

“Indeed, the company made clear that 100% FIFO is unlikely, and that the company and its contractors are considering several workforce options for the mine site, of which FIFO will be one.”

In regards to reports which suggest that Adani will start construction activity in September, the spokesman attributed to this to the opinion of Fairfax Media journalist Matthew Stevens.

“The comments relate to dredging approval and final investment decision being closely linked,” the spokesman told ICN.

“September was Matt's observation.”

Adani is also regularly subjected to press reports relating to legal opposition from the Wangan and Jagalingou indigenous people to the project, including from The Guardian, a newspaper which has an editorial campaign called “keep it in the ground” which includes opposing coal mining.

However, Adani is confident that a favourable National Native Title Tribunal judgement, which is being appealed, will be upheld.

“The NNTT variously held that authorised representatives of the W&J are working with the company, the submissions of the appellants were not to be considered, that the mine and other Adani projects would deliver substantial inter-generational economic benefits to the W&J, and that there are sound and effective cultural heritage management plans for the site long since in place,” the spokesman said.