Delays in finalising approvals for the New Acland Stage 3 extension are costing jobs and money amid keen global demand for coal, the Queensland Resources Council (QRC) says.

The QRC is calling on the Queensland Government to finalise approvals for the New Acland Stage 3 project to reinforce Australia’s reputation as a reliable supplier of energy commodities.

“The world, especially Europe, needs Queensland’s high-quality commodities now more than ever,” QRC chief executive Ian Macfarlane said.

“Queensland’s high-quality coal has a role to play in ensuring energy security and stability for export nations.

“Delays in finalising approvals for the New Acland mine have not only cost jobs and hurt the Darling Downs economy, but they are also undercutting Australia’s capacity to supply global markets at a time when they need our commodities the most.

“In December the Land Court of Queensland recommended the New Acland Mine Stage 3 mining leases and environmental authority amendment application be granted, subject to conditions.”

Resources Minister Scott Stewart said teh governmnet had always said it would let the legal process finish before any decision was made.

“New Hope recently submitted its revised plan for New Acland to the Coordinator-General,” he said.

“As per the Land Court recommendation this must be considered by the Coordinator-General and Department of Environment and Science before the mining lease application can be considered.

“The Queensland Resources Council is well aware of this process.”

Mr Stewart said the state had enjoyed more than $21 billion worth of new investment in resources projects, creating 8000 jobs, under the Palaszczuk Government.

Mr Macfarlane said Queensland’s energy exports including coal and LNG had a role to play as nations worked towards net zero emissions goals, especially as export nations took the time needed to implement new technologies, including renewables, carbon capture and storage, and to further develop hydrogen potential.

“Queensland has the resources to be at the centre of each of these markets, but lengthy project delays are holding the state back and could compromise future opportunities,” he said.

“Australia has built its reputation as a trusted global supplier of commodities. The Queensland Government cannot drag out a decision on New Acland any longer.”