Queensland Premier David Crisafulli has announced a fresh $50 million investment by Indian businesses tycoon Gautam Adani’s Bravus into the Carmichael coal mine, paving the way for a half-billion-dollar expansion and hundreds of new jobs in Central Queensland.
The initial funding will deliver an expanded workers’ village, a new water dam, a rail maintenance hub, and additional mine site infrastructure. It forms part of a larger $500 million commitment expected to lift production by one-third and create 600 construction jobs, subject to approvals.
Premier Crisafulli said the deal reflected his government’s focus on restoring investor confidence in Queensland’s resources sector. “Jobs mean security for families and a better lifestyle through a stronger economy – and we’ve just secured 600 new ones for Queenslanders,” he said.
“We’re sending a strong signal that Queensland is open for business and backing the future of our regional communities who rely on a thriving resources sector.”
Treasurer David Janetzki stressed that the Crisafulli Government had not altered the coal royalty tiers introduced by Labor in 2022 but had secured the expansion while ending a protracted legal dispute. “We were locked into this deal by the former Labor Government, but we’ve worked hard to ensure hundreds of jobs come with it,” he said.
“There will be no further royalty deferrals – Bravus will repay every cent owed to Queensland taxpayers, with interest.”
Natural Resources and Mines Minister Dale Last called the expansion a strong vote of confidence in the state’s mining future. “Global demand for high-quality coal remains strong, and Queensland is well placed to meet it,” he said.
“With over 400 coal-fired power stations under construction worldwide, from India to South-East Asia, our reserves in the Galilee Basin can support both global energy needs and Queensland jobs.”
Federal Senator Matthew Canavan welcomed the announcement while taking a swipe at renewable energy projects. “The Adani mine employs 2,000 Queenslanders, while your average wind factory employs less than 10,” he said.
“Thanks to the royalty agreement originally struck with Adani, Queensland has now locked in another $500 million investment in coal jobs.”
The Carmichael expansion marks one of the first major resources investments under the Crisafulli Government, which has vowed to “turbo-charge” opportunity in regional Queensland.
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