Queensland government approves Whitehaven’s Winchester South coal mine

The Queensland Government has ticked off its approval for a new $1bn mine in the Bowen Basin, expected to add almost $700m to the state’s coffers — while activists point out it’s completely contradictory to reducing emissions.

A new $1 billion metallurgical coal mine has been given the green light to be built in Queensland’s Bowen Basin near Moranbah.

A new $1bn metallurgical coal mine has been given the green light to be carved out in Queensland’s Bowen Basin.

A Queensland Department of Environment, Science and Innovation spokesman said it had approved Whitehaven WS’s environmental authority application for the Winchester South coal mine after comprehensive assessment.

The spokesman stated the Coordinator-General issued a report in November which recommended the project, about 30km southeast of Moranbah in the Isaac region, go ahead subject to conditions and recommendations.

“This EA application was publicly notified and five submissions were received by the department – all of which were considered in the assessment process,” the spokesman said.

The DES will outline reasons for its approval on February 14 with those opposed to the project then having 20 business days to request the mine proposal be referred to the Land Court.

The location of Whitehaven WS’s new Winchester South open cut coal mine in the Bowen Basin within the Isaac region. Picture: Winchester South project revised draft EIS - Attachment 13 - Air quality and greenhouse gas

Construction of the open cut mine is expected to begin in 2026.

It will produce up to 17 million tonnes of coal per year over 30 years, sustain about 500 jobs, and contribute $696m in royalties to the state government.

Lock the Gate Alliance has condemned the approval, stating it will produce more than 500,000 tonnes of greenhouse gas per year or nearly 16 million tonnes over its lifespan.

Environmental Advocacy Central Queensland director Dr Coral Rowston said it was contradictory for the state government to approve a new mine shortly after setting new carbon emission reduction targets in its Queensland Energy and Jobs Plan.

“(The mine) also poses unacceptable threats to ecosystems and Queenslanders’ human rights,” Dr Rowston said.

“The Queensland Miles Government can reduce the state’s emissions, or it can have new coal mines.”

Dr Rowston said she hoped Federal Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek could reverse the state government’s “poor decision” which she said would kill loved species like koalas, greater gliders and the Australian Painted Snipe.

Originally published as Queensland government approves Whitehaven’s Winchester South coal mine