Government steps in to resolve mining impasse

The State Government will step in to address an historic anomaly dating back to the 1980’s, Mines and Energy Minister Geoff Wilson said today.

Minister Wilson said legislation introduced into State Parliament would resolve a long-running mining dispute and safeguard more than 1800 jobs and the expansion of the state’s billion dollar coal industry.

Minister Wilson said the dispute between two mining companies could jeopardise jobs in the Bowen Basin and lead to a loss of around 12 million tonnes of high-quality coking coal.

“Queensland’s mineral wealth belongs to the people of Queensland. The government’s job is to be a good steward of these resources,” Mr Wilson said.

“I’ve also got an obligation as Minister for Mines and Energy to safeguard our reputation as one of the best and most reliable producers of coal in the world, along with the jobs of workers in our booming industry.

“We’ve come up with a solution that’s in the best interests of Queensland,” he said.

BMA and Cherwell Creek Coal have been at loggerheads over mining rights for more than 13 years.

“BMA wants to build a new billion dollar mine to expand its Peak Downs mine on mining land that overlaps Cherwell Creek’s interests.

“These are exceptional circumstances. It’s an historic anomaly and we’re going to fix it with fairness.

“Last year, the Peak Downs mine yielded coal exports of more than $1.2 billion and more than $80 million in coal royalties to the state.

“These royalties help build our schools and hospitals, put police on the beat and teachers in our classrooms,” Mr Wilson said.

“Cherwell Creek has had more than 13 years to develop a coal resource. We have to weigh up what’s best for Queensland and in this case, it’s the jobs of thousands of workers and the production of high-quality coking coal,” he said.

“The legislation confirms BMA’s tenure over the land and gives Cherwell Creek the means to claim compensation from BMA if it can establish its tenure had value,” Mr Wilson said.

Media Inquiries: Ellen McIntyre 3225 1819