Adani’s Carmichael Coal and Rail project has dominated headlines this week as both the Queensland and Federal Governments continue their push for the 21.7b dollar project’s construction.
Both governments have now approved 31.5kms of permanent rail and a 300 bed construction camp for the Galilee Basin project – the last government approvals needed for the mine’s construction.
The news came amidst the arrival of Adani founder and Chairman Gautam Adani who visited Townsville on the basis of establishing the city as the regional base for the project.
Murrawah Johnson is a spokesperson for the Wangan and Jagalingou Traditional Owners Council, the main opposition against the coal and rail project.
In a two year long fight against Adani, the WNJ council fears construction of the mine would lead to the destruction of country and sacred sites.
Ms Johnson says though the state government has thrown its support behind Adani, court cases could see the project stall for another two years.
Ms Johnson says WNJ has come up against opposition who question whether First Nations people can have a voice in this type of situation.
WNJ launched fresh legal action against Adani this week, alleging Adani engaged in misleading conduct before the National Native Title Tribunal – speaking at a press conference, WNJ Legal Representative Benedict Coyne says it’s time for Australian Law to catch up with International Standards.
WNJ Spokesperson Adrian Burragubba says whats challenging him personally is the Federal Government and Adani questioning his authority to speak for country.
