Central Queensland rail project moves forward

[ozbob]

Deputy Premier, Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning
The Honourable Jeff Seeney
24/09/2012

Central Queensland rail project moves forward

Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Jeff Seeney has welcomed the next stage of environmental assessment for the proposed $2 billion Central Queensland Integrated Rail project.

QR National proposes to build an integrated, heavy haul rail system that would link mines in the Galilee and Bowen Basins to Queensland ports in the Abbot Point and Hay Point areas.

"I am pleased that the Queensland Coordinator-General has finalised the terms of reference (ToR) for the project's environmental impact statement (EIS)," Mr Seeney said.

"The long-term success of our mining industry relies on the timely delivery of infrastructure to support international exports and jobs.

"This milestone brings us a step closer to determining how this rail proposal stacks up and how it may service the proposed mines in the Galilee Basin."

Mr Seeney said the Queensland Government had committed to two rail co rridors connecting the Galilee Basin to the Port of Abbot Point.

"The previous government's uncoordinated approach led to multiple rail lines and other linear infrastructure being proposed by several proponents across properties between the Galilee Basin and the coast.

"As I announced in June, the Government intends to rationalise the number of new rail corridors being created, and will encourage the sharing of rail corridors wherever possible."

The ToR confirms that in light of the government's policy on Galilee, QR National has removed a 160-kilometre section of the greenfields corridor that would have extended from south of the Galilee basin near Alpha, to the Galilee Junction west of Moranbah.

Queensland Coordinator-General Barry Broe said 21 submissions were received from the public and advisory agencies on the draft terms of reference.

"The submissions have been taken into account in finalising the terms of reference, so the way is now clear for the proponent to complete its EIS studies," Mr Broe said.

"When I am satisfied that the EIS addresses the terms of reference, the document will be circulated to key stakeholders, and advertised for public comment.

"The public will have another opportunity to provide further feedback on this rail project, once the EIS is released."

[ENDS] 24 September 2012