"Slap in the face": Plibersek approves Vulcan South coal mine despite criminal investigation

Federal Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek has approved four new coal mine projects, including the controversial Vulcan South coal mine in Queensland which is currently under criminal investigation.

Vulcan South, owned by Vitrinite, is under federal investigation for allegedly clearing 47 hectares of protected koala habitat and mining coal without approval—serious allegations that could violate the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) Act. These alleged breaches carry potential penalties of up to seven years in prison and fines exceeding $657,300.

The four projects, which also include Caval Ridge (Qld), Lake Vermont Meadowbrook (Qld) and Boggabri (NSW) - will emit more than 880 million tonnes of carbon dioxide, escalating the climate crisis at a time when flooding rains and heatwaves are impacting the state.

Queensland Conservation Council Climate Lead Jenny Brown said

Tanya Plibersek’s announcement of four new mine projects at a time when Queenslanders are battling flash floods and heatwaves is completely tone deaf and shows a shocking failure of leadership.

This reckless decision puts Queensland lives in danger by increasing the risk of climate disasters like the floods and heatwaves smashing the state right now.

Vulcan South is under criminal investigation for allegedly bulldozing protected koala habitat and mining coal without approval - and yet Tanya Plibersek has given it the thumbs up.

By approving a mine under criminal investigation, the Albanese Government is sending a dangerous message: corporate lawbreakers can get their way no matter the allegations against them.

How can Australians trust environmental laws when a mine accused of destroying koala habitat and mining without approval is allowed to go ahead? This decision makes a mockery of the system meant to protect our wildlife.

Approving this mine is a slap in the face to everyone who believes in fairness and accountability. It’s a clear signal that the Albanese Government puts corporate interests over our communities, climate, and iconic wildlife.

Queenslanders deserve transparency and accountability. Minister Plibersek must immediately release the findings of the criminal investigation and prove that companies like Vitrinite will face consequences for breaking the law.

This reckless decision demonstrates why our national environment laws need immediate reform, and why the Albanese Government needs to honour its commitment to pass stronger nature laws before the election.

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