The Environmental Protection and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2008 will bring nine mines, including five opencut coal mines, into line with other mines in the state.

Sustainability, Climate Change and Innovation Minister Andrew McNamara said the sites included some of the largest mining operations in the state, including BHP Billiton Mitsubishi Alliance's Peak Downs, Goonyella, Norwich Park and Saraji, and Anglo Coal's Moura mine.

“The Acts were drafted at a time when the economic conditions were different, and when the government of the day felt that it needed to give greater certainty to the mining companies, given the scale of capital investment the mines required," McNamara said.

“However, over the last 50 years, the demand for minerals and the scale of mining operations has increased worldwide.

“This bill will ensure that these mines operate under the same environmental standards that apply to the other 1200 mines throughout Queensland.

“This bill makes it possible for us to benefit from the use of our natural resources as well as protect the environment on all mining sites in Queensland."