business
Queensland Reviews Mine Rehabilitation Rules After 12% Rise in Unrehabilitated Land
State officials announced a review of financial requirements for mine cleanup costs. Environmental advocates warned that weaker rules could shift expenses to taxpayers.
The GuardianAudio version
Tap play to generate a narrated version.
Developing·Limited corroboration so far. This page will refresh as more sources emerge.
Queensland officials announced a review of rules requiring mining companies to provide financial security for mine rehabilitation and remediation. The review targets a scheme introduced in 2019 that sets aside funds to cover cleanup when mines close.
The amount of unrehabilitated mined land in the state grew 12 percent from 2019 to 2024 and now exceeds 223,684 hectares. Officials said the review aims to maintain environmental standards while reducing barriers for smaller mining companies and explorers.
An environmental group coordinator said smaller companies are most likely to abandon sites without completing rehabilitation. The coordinator added that some operators place mines in care and maintenance before disappearing, leaving contaminants that can affect waterways and the Great Barrier Reef.
A cattle farmer near Bluff said the 1,100-hectare open-cut mine on her property entered receivership in late 2023. She stated that obligations for road access and communication lines remain unmet and asked who would pay for the damage.
A mining industry group said the current scheme impedes new investment and welcomed the review. Officials indicated the process will seek input from both industry and environmental stakeholders.
