Queensland Government Promises to Boost Coal Mine Jobs

Friday, 10 June 2011 14:41

The Queensland government said a new coal mine proposed for the state’s Central Highlands could create 1,000 ongoing jobs. If approved, the Byerwen coal mine would be constructed about 140 km west of Mackay. According to ABC News, the state government said the A$1.5 billion mine could produce up to 10 million metric tons of coking coal per year, for export to Japan and other Asian markets. The joint project between QCoal and JFE Steel could create up to 500 jobs during construction, with 1,000 ongoing positions once the mine is operational. Construction could start as early as next year. Anglo American recently announced plans for another two underground mines near Moranbah, south-west of Mackay.