Queensland coal mine expansion legal battle ends, operator confident to progress ramp up plan

The Oakey Coal Action Alliance (OCAA) has ended its 10-year legal battle against the expansion of the New Acland coal mine in Queensland, Australia. The group withdrew its appeal against a water license granted by the state government in 2022. The mine's operator, New Hope Group, plans to expand production to 7.5 million tonnes per annum for another 12 years, creating up to 400 permanent jobs.

In a significant turn of events, the Oakey Coal Action Alliance (OCAA) has recently withdrawn its appeal against the expansion of the New Acland coal mine in Queensland, Australia [1]. The group had been engaged in a 10-year legal battle against the mine's operator, New Hope Group, over concerns regarding water usage and potential impacts on groundwater resources.

The OCAA's decision to abandon the legal challenge comes after the Queensland government granted New Acland a water license in 2022, allowing the mine to expand production to 7.5 million tonnes per annum for another 12 years [1]. This expansion is expected to generate up to 400 permanent jobs [2].

The OCAA's initial concerns centered around the potential risks to the groundwater resources that are crucial for the agricultural region in Darling Downs. The group, represented by the Environmental Defenders Office (EDO), had challenged the Queensland government's decision to grant the associated water license to New Acland, seeking to ensure that the groundwater impacts were adequately assessed [1].

However, with the legal battle now concluded, New Acland Coal can proceed with the expansion, subject to the conditions outlined in the water license. The company has not yet provided an undertaking to the OCAA regarding the prevention of groundwater interference before the challenge is decided [1].

The OCAA's decision to end the legal battle does not signal a surrender to the coal mining industry. Instead, it marks a strategic shift in their efforts to protect the region's groundwater resources. Paul King, OCAA secretary, reiterated their commitment to farming and their intention to continue advocating for the protection of the Darling Downs [1].

This development in the New Acland coal mine expansion saga underscores the complex interplay between economic development, environmental concerns, and legal challenges in the Australian context.

References:
[1] Environmental Defenders Office. (2023, May 16). Oakey Coal Action Alliance launches legal challenge against New Acland. https://www.edo.org.au/2023/05/16/oakey-coal-action-alliance-launches-legal-challenge-against-new-acland/
[2] New Hope Group. (2022, November 16). New Acland Mine Expansion Approved. https://www.newhopegroup.com.au/media/media-releases/new-acland-mine-expansion-approved/