The Department of Environment and Science (DES) has recommended the Central Queensland Coal Project not proceed.
In its Environmental Impact Statement Assessment Report, DES says the project posed a number of unacceptable risks.
In a statement accompanying the report, DES said it had considered public submissions and advice from relevant Agencies, including the Commonwealth Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment and the Independent Expert Scientific Committee.
“The project poses a number of unacceptable risks primarily due to its proximity to a number of sensitive areas,” the Department said.
It said these included the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park and World Heritage Area, the Broad Sound Fish Habitat Area, Tooloombah Creek, Deep Creek, the Styx River Estuary, and nearby groundwater ecosystems.
However, it noted that the Assessment Report recommendation was not the final decision for the project — that would be made by the Commonwealth Minister for the Environment.
“The Commonwealth Minister has 30 business days to make a decision, unless further information is required,” the Department said.
“The Assessment Report will also inform any State decision on Environmental Authority and Mining Lease applications.”
The Department’s full Environmental Impact Statement Assessment Report can be accessed at this PS News link.
