Stronger support for coalmining in north and central Queensland

As inner-city activists ratchet up their opposition to coalmining, an exclusive poll has revealed whether they have had any impact on attitudes in Queensland’s mining heartland.

VOTERS with strong links to mining heartlands have not been swayed by high-profile green activism in four key Queensland seats at risk of falling at the next federal election.

North and central Queenslanders have increased their support for coalmining, with an exclusive ReachTEL poll revealing regional voters still consider the industry their best chance of getting a job.

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More than 2500 respondents found voters in the electorates of Capriconia, Dawson, Flynn and Herbert were more supportive of the coal industry in December than they were in March and October.

And those aged 18-34 – usually those trying to get a job or buy their first home – are most supportive of coalmining.

Green activists, many from southern states, have railed against Adani and want to see the end to thermal-coal production.

Senior members of Bill Shorten’s Opposition have publicly stated they do not want Adani to go ahead.

Respondents were asked the same two questions in March, October and December – whether they agreed or disagreed with the statement that the coal industry was an important contributor to the economy of regional Queensland, and if they agreed or disagreed with the statement that the jobs generated by the coal industry were important for regional Queensland.

Mine workers at Labona Camp, where the first heavy equipment has arrived to commence construction on Adani's mega coalmine. Picture: Cameron Laird

To both questions, about 60 per cent of respondents strongly agreed – and it has increased over the past few months. Fewer than 10 cent disagreed.

The polling, commissioned by a member of the Minerals Council of Australia, showed support for mining will be a key factor for voters in the four seats at the next election. Herbert is held by Labor but the other three seats are held by the LNP.

The Coalition believes it has a good chance of winning back Herbert.

Adani Mining chief executive officer Lucas Dow accused the Palaszczuk Government last week of blocking the delivery of more than 1500 direct jobs with its go-slow approval processes.

“All we ask is that we be treated in the same way as those other companies, and that the process is fair and consistent,” he said.