Critical QLD resources projects fast-tracked towards development

Two major resources projects in Queensland are being fast-tracked towards development and streamlined assessment, which sends a clear signal that the State is open for business.

Queensland Coordinator-General has declared the $1.24 billion Corvus Metallurgical Coal Project a Coordinated Project, and this paves the way for a comprehensive Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) process to assess the development’s potential benefits and impacts.

Project proponent Corvus Resources Pty Ltd is proposing to develop a new underground longwall coal mine about 17 kilometres north of Emerald. Construction of key infrastructure, including a conveyor and train load-out facility, is expected to commence in 2027.

“The Crisafulli Government is clearing the backlog, fast-tracking approvals and sending a clear message that Queensland is open for business again.

“By streamlining approvals and fast-tracking major projects, we are rebuilding trust with industry, restoring certainty to the system and putting Queensland back on the map as a place that welcomes responsible investment.

“These declarations send a clear message to the resources and critical minerals sectors, as well as communities: Queensland welcomes projects that create jobs, support regional communities and strengthen our economy,” Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Jarrod Bleijie said.

“My declaration ensures a rigorous assessment of the project’s impact while streamlining approvals through a whole-of-government approach.

“The Office of the Coordinator-General will work closely with Corvus Resources to ensure economic benefits are maximised whole protecting the environment and engaging with the community,” Queensland Coordinator-General Gerard Coggan said.

Once the mine is operational, it is estimated to produce up to 10.5 million tonnes of raw coal annually over a 25-year mine life, with about 90 per cent of the ultra-low ash metallurgical coal to be exported to the global steelmaking markets through the Port of Gladstone.

This resources project is also expected to provide a significant boost to the Queensland economy, creating 284 construction jobs and 500 ongoing operational roles.

“Corvus Resources is committed to working with the Queensland Government and local stakeholders to deliver a project that supports regional communities, creates jobs and contributes to the state’s long-term economic prosperity,” Corvus Resources Chief Executive Officer Chris Coombes said.

On the other hand, the $400 million Big Vein South Gold Project has been declared a Prescribed Project and this grants the Coordinator-General authority to streamline the approval process as well as fast-track its progress.

The mine is going to be located about 120 kilometres north of Richmond, and it will include a new open cut gold mine on a greenfield site.

Production at the Big Vein South Gold Project is targeted to begin in 2028, processing approximately 1.95 million tonnes of ore annually and yielding up to 100,000 ounces of gold doré each year.

“Projects like these mean real jobs for local families, strong demand for local businesses, and long-term economic certainty for the region.

“From construction through to operations, the flow-on benefits for contractors, suppliers, and town economies are substantial, and that’s why resource development continues to matter so much to our region,” Member for Gregory Sean Dillon said.

“The Prescribed Project declaration is a major milestone for Strategic Minerals and confirms the strategic importance of the BVS Gold Project to Queensland’s North West Minerals Province.

“This declaration gives us the confidence to move through the approvals process efficiently and deliver on the significant economic potential the BVS Gold Project represents – for our workforce, for Richmond, and for Queensland,” Strategic Minerals Corporation Executive General Manager Sylvia Bhatia said.

Source: Queensland Government – Media Statements; Australian Mining; Australian Government – Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (1, 2)