Queensland Election 2017: Adani still wants taxpayer loan for Queensland megamine

THE Indian mining giant has shot down claims aired by the ABC it was no longer seeking its controversial $1 billion loan, doubling down on its push for taxpayer funds saying it will repay “every cent” with interest.

Anti-Adani protesters storm the stage as Pauline Hanson's One Nation Queensland Leader Steve Dickson (left) speaks at the Townsville Leaders forum. Picture: AAP/Tracy Nearmy

ADANI is still chasing a loan from the Federal Government despite Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk promising to veto it.

The company has also shot down ABC reports which claimed it was no longer seeking the funds of up to $1 billion.

It also fended off ABC claims that some jobs at the project would go to China as part of a financing deal with Chinese investors.

The site of Adani’s Carmichael Coal mine project in north Queensland.

“Adani’s commitment to Queenslanders – particularly regional Queenslanders – remains rock solid. Unlike some who are reducing their presence in regional centres, Adani will never trade-off local jobs for short-term benefit,’’ a spokesman said.

“In fact, Adani’s regionalisation strategy has cost the company money, not saved money.’’

Last year Adani promised there would be no 457 visa workers on the project.

“There have been incorrect reports in the media this morning stating that Adani is no longer seeking a loan from the Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility (NAIF).

Adani has not sought to become a subject of contention in the current Queensland election campaign.

“Adani has held productive meetings with a wide-range of financiers for the Carmichael Mine and associated infrastructure. However, this does not negate the need for support from the Federal and State governments including a NAIF loan – every cent of which will be repaid by Adani with interest,’’ the company said.

“The purpose of NAIF is to provide loans for economic infrastructure and, again, every cent of this loan will be repaid with interest.

“The infrastructure Adani is building will be common user infrastructure and will be able to be used by other projects creating opportunities for further jobs and investment.

“If the public sector were to undertake to build this critical infrastructure, as has been done in the past, the cost would be higher and that cost would be carried solely by the taxpayer.

Originally published as Queensland Election 2017: Adani still wants taxpayer loan for Queensland megamine