Click here for photo of QRC Chief Executive Ian Macfarlane
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The Queensland Government's approval today of mining leases for New Hope Group's New Acland Stage 3 coal mine project has been welcomed by the Queensland Resources Council (QRC).
The final step is to obtain a water licence from the Department of Regional Development, Manufacturing and Water.
QRC chief executive Ian Macfarlane said today's announcement is a relief for the company, local businesses and people in the local community, who have supported the proposed mine extension through 15 years of legal wrangling.
"No resources project in Queensland history has been more scrutinised or assessed than New Acland Stage 3, so this is very welcome news for people in the Oakey district," Mr Macfarlane said.
"The QRC thanks Resources Minister Scott Stewart for his even-handed approach, and we acknowledge the detailed assessment work that has taken place over many years by the Department of Resources."
Mr Macfarlane said the world, especially Europe, needs Queensland's high-quality energy commodities now more than ever to provide energy security and stability in the face of ongoing geopolitical instability.
"Queensland's exports such as coal and LNG have a role to play as export nations work towards achieving their net zero emissions goals, especially as countries take the time needed to transition and implement new technologies – including renewables and carbon capture and storage – and further develop the potential for hydrogen to be a green energy source," he said.
