Mines Minister Andrew Cripps said the department had received an application for the rail loadout facility but was waiting for the requirements to be fulfilled.

“The proponent for a mining lease has a number of statutory requirements to meet and approvals to be lodged before a lease can be considered for grant, including addressing native title, receiving environmental approval and reaching binding compensation agreements with landholders and any other affected parties,” he said. 

Mr Cripps said the Cloncurry Shire Council was looking at options to progress the facility under a council development application. 

“This arrangement would allow a facility to be developed for the benefit of the region without the need for a mining lease, which is restricted to operations of the holder of the lease,” he said. 

Delays to mining project developments due to Environment Impact Statements were necessary. 

Statements ensured resource projects operated responsibly and reduced safety risks, and impacts on land and water resources.