Queensland’s main resources sector body says today’s Commonwealth Government approval of Adani Mining’s North Galilee Basin Rail (NGBR) project brings the creation of more than 10,000 jobs a step closer. Chief Executive of the Queensland Resources Council Michael Roche says the approval, which follows the Commonwealth Government’s approval of the Carmichael mine, as well as the Queensland Coordinator General’s approval of the NGBR in August, is welcome good news, particularly for the people of Central Queensland.
“There’s not been much good news of late for our coal sector and its employees, so this is just the sort of news that will be very welcome, particularly in our regional communities,” said Roche. “I congratulate Adani on earning federal approval for this pioneering rail project, which will lead to the creation of vital jobs and confirm the long-term contribution of the coal industry to the state and the nation.
“The approval of the new 300 km rail project is a boon for Queensland and for the developers, Adani Mining and their partners, Korean industrial giant POSCO. The rail project alone could provide up to 2,400 new jobs, connecting the Carmichael mine, northwest of Clermont to the Port of Abbot Point, north of Bowen.
“Regional communities including Alpha, Clermont, Emerald, Bowen, Moranbah, Mackay, Rockhampton and Townsville are all expected to benefit from development of the so-far untapped resources in the Galilee Basin.
“Coal provides more than 40% of the world’s electricity and is predicted to soon overtake oil as the largest source of primary energy. Despite baseless claims from the anti-coal brigade, the demand for thermal coal is forecast to rise substantially over coming decades with Asia alone requiring extra 46 Mt/y of imported coal according to analysts HDR Salva.”
“At its peak, the Carmichael mine is expected to produce 60 Mt/y – less than one and a half year’s forecast demand growth. We have seen activist groups try every trick in the book to disrupt and delay Galilee Basin projects, which not only delays the supply of electricity to the developing world but also economic benefits to Queensland, and regional communities in particular.”
