Weipa bauxite project gets conditional approval from Queensland Government

RIO Tinto Alcan's $1.45 billion bauxite project near Weipa has been approved by the State Government but faces a more rigorous assessment before it can proceed, Federal Environment Minister Tony Burke warns.

The South of Embley venture will generate more than 2000 jobs and extend the life of bauxite mining operations near Weipa for another 40 years.

Queensland Co-ordinator-General Barry Broe yesterday announced the project had been granted conditional approval.

"I have imposed conditions which establish clear principles and procedures on matters including post-mining land use and rehabilitation, local and indigenous employment, training and skills development and mitigation of potential social impacts of the mine," he said.

Rio Tinto Alcan president and chief executive officer of bauxite and alumina Pat Fiore said the economic impact of the project would ripple throughout the region.

South of Embley would enable the company to extend bauxite mining to an existing lease and build new infrastructure including a power station, processing plant, warehouses, workshops, a barge and ship-loading facilities.

Mr Fiore said the project would generate employment for the region "for generations to come".

"An average of 950 workers will be required for construction," he said.

"During operation, employee numbers will range up to 1200, depending on production rates."

But Mr Burke, who has raised concerns about the impact the mine’s shipping activity would have on the Great Barrier Reef, said the proposal would come under close scrutiny from the federal environment department.