The Queensland Government has expedited the development of two major coal and gold projects, signalling the region’s renewed economic focus.

Coordinator-General Gerard Coggan has declared the Corvus Metallurgical Coal Project, valued at A$1.24bn ($887.83m), a Coordinated Project.

Proposed by Corvus Resources, the project involves new underground long-wall coal mine development 17km north of Emerald.

The mine aims to produce up to 10.5 million tonnes per annum (mtpa) of raw coal over 25 years once it becomes operational.

Around 90% of the ultra-low-ash metallurgical coal is intended for global steel markets through the Port of Gladstone.

The project is expected to generate 284 construction jobs and 500 operational positions.

Construction of necessary infrastructure is due to commence in 2027.

Corvus Resources CEO Chris Coombes said: “Corvus Resources is committed to working with the Queensland Government and local stakeholders to deliver a project that supports regional communities, creates jobs and contributes to the state’s long-term economic prosperity.”

In a parallel development, the Big Vein South Gold Project, worth A$400m, has been declared a Prescribed Project.

This new open-cut gold mine, situated 120km north of Richmond, is set to create 980 jobs during construction and 380 operational roles.

Production is expected to start in 2028, processing roughly 1.95mtpa of ore and producing around 100,000oz of gold doré every year.

Following years of delay and uncertainty, the government is now fostering industry confidence by advancing major projects and supporting regional communities with job creation and economic development.

Queensland Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Jarrod Bleijie said: “During Labor’s decade of decline, major projects were trapped in bureaucracy, investment confidence collapsed and regional communities paid the price.

“The Crisafulli Government is clearing the backlog, fast‑tracking approvals and sending a clear message that Queensland is open for business again.

“By streamlining approvals and fast‑tracking major projects, we are rebuilding trust with industry, restoring certainty to the system and putting Queensland back on the map as a place that welcomes responsible investment.”