The Albanese government has approved a major expansion of the Middlemount coal mine in Queensland’s Bowen Basin, a move that scientists warn will destroy vital wildlife habitat and worsen climate change. The project, owned by Peabody and Yancoal, will clear roughly 183 hectares of koala habitat and 81 hectares for greater gliders, while producing about 85 million tonnes of coal for export. When burned overseas, this coal could release an estimated 236 million tonnes of CO₂, contributing significantly to global greenhouse gas emissions. Conservationists argue that mitigation measures like relocating tree hollows are unlikely to fully protect the affected species.
Environmental experts say the approval undermines Australia’s climate goals, as expanding fossil fuel production makes it harder to limit global warming. The habitat loss also threatens vulnerable local species and weakens conservation efforts. Although the government has imposed conditions on the project, most emissions from exported coal will occur outside Australia, meaning the climate impact will be global. Advocates warn the decision highlights the tension between economic interests and environmental protection, and represents a setback for the country’s climate commitments. More