The Queensland government has fast-tracked two major resources projects that are worth an estimated AU$1.6 billion.
The Coordinator-General has declared the $1.24 billion Corvus Metallurgical coal project a Coordinated Project, a move that will allow for a comprehensive Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) process to assess its potential benefits and impacts.
Located 17 kilometres north of Emerald, the proposed underground longwall mine is slated to produce 10.5 million tonnes of raw coal annually. Roughly 90 per cent of this ultra-low ash metallurgical coal is destined for international steelmaking markets.
Construction is expected to begin in 2027, bringing 284 construction jobs and 500 ongoing roles to the Gregory region.
In the state’s north, the AU$400 million Big Vein South gold project has also been granted Prescribed Project status.
This declaration allows the Coordinator-General to cut through red tape and streamline approvals for the open-cut mine, located 120 kilometres north of Richmond.
Targeted for a 2028 start, the mine aims to produce 100,000 ounces of gold doré per year, supporting nearly 1,000 workers during its construction phase.
Both projects are expected to create over 1,200 construction jobs and 880 permanent operational roles across regional Queensland.
Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development Jarrod Bleijie said the declarations send a clear message to the global resources sector.
“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,” he said.
“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.”
Local MP Sean Dillon echoed the sentiment, noting that the projects provide long-term economic certainty for regional families and businesses.
“Projects like these mean real jobs for local families, strong demand for local businesses, and long-term economic certainty for the region,” Dillon said.
“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.”
