A group of Central Queensland mayors have voiced their unanimous support for the development of the Carmichael Coal Mine, which, if approved, will become Australia’s largest mine.
Mayors for the Whitsunday Regional Organisation of Councils (ROC) – a collaboration between Whitsunday, Mackay and Isaac Regionals Councils – met with a representative from energy company Adani last week, to receive updates on the ongoing approvals process.
Federal environmental approval for the $16 billion mine was set aside by the Federal Court last month.
The Adani representative, Raj Guruswamy, told the Whitsunday ROC that the Carmichael Mine remained viable and would create thousands of jobs and millions of dollars for the State Government via royalties.
There was no update on the federal re-approval of the project, but the company has stated it is determined to go ahead with plans, having already spent almost $3bn.
Diversify Mackay Leadership Alliance (DMLA) representative Tony Caruso and representatives of the Resource Industry Network (RIN) and Chamber of Commerce were also involved in the meeting last week.
The Whitsunday ROC group said the mine is vital for promoting economic growth in the area.
Mayor Deirdre Comerford of Mackay Regional Council said, “We need the jobs and this project would certainly be a significant boost to many local economies.”
Criticism of the mine’s environmental credentials have been lodged by The Greens and other concerned groups.
Cr Comerford on behalf of Whitsunday ROC, “We acknowledge that the state and federal governments have a responsibility to carefully consider all factors regarding approvals.”
But, Cr Comerford said, “Coal mining and the environment can work together and this project has met every requirement of the state’s strictest environmental conditions.”
Isaac Mayor Anne Baker said collaboration is necessary for the project to go ahead.
“All levels of government have a responsibility to focus on delivering job creation and a strong economy for Queenslanders by supporting industry development.
“At the same time we need to ensure it’s done responsibly with genuine engagement with all stakeholders.
“I’m sure by working together, government and industry will overcome the ongoing hurdles faced by the coal project and deliver benefits to the North and Central Queensland economies.”
Cr Baker further stressed the economic benefits for the region.
“Carmichael Coal Mine has the potential to create thousands of construction and operational jobs and is welcomed by us; it’s milk and honey for all of Queensland.”
