Garrett delays Qld LNG projects

Federal Environment Minister Peter Garrett says he wants time to study the environmental impacts of the proposed Curtis Island coal seam gas projects in Gladstone and offshore at Curtis Island.

Chrissy Harris

BILLIONS of dollars of Queensland coal seam gas projects are on hold for three months so Environment Minister Peter Garrett can study their environmental impacts.

Mr Garrett has sought an additional three months to complete his assessments of the Santos and BG liquefied natural gas (LNG) projects in Gladstone and offshore at Curtis Island.

The extension will allow for comprehensive assessments under environment laws, and the follow up of deficiencies identified in the Queensland Coordinator General's report, which included potential damage to the Great Barrier Reef.

Extension of the deadline means the assessments, which Mr Garrett received at the end of June, won't be handed down until October 11, his spokesman told AAP.

"These are the first coal seam gas LNG projects that have been assessed under national environment law, and it's important that the potentially significant environmental impacts of this project on nationally protected matters are properly assessed," the spokesman told AAP.

"This is the same approach the minister has adopted for other major development proposals."

The Coordinator General's report, obtained by AAP, has identified possible environmental impacts because of the significant amount of water and salt removed from coal seams.

"I consider the strategies for managing CSG water as critical, as there is the potential for ongoing risks to streams, soils and landscapes, through inappropriate use and disposal of CSG water," the report said of BG's Curtis Island project.

"I am concerned that the cost to future generations will be substantial should rehabilitation works associated with CSG LNG industry activities be ineffectively undertaken.

"However, I am confident that the EP (Environmental Protection) Act administering authority will require the proponent to address these matters in an manner that will protect current and future generations of Queenslanders."

The report, which also separately assessed Santos' Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), states the Gladstone LNG proposal was not acceptable to the environment department.

"I am concerned about the discharge of brine and effluent into Port Curtis," the report said.

"The proponent has failed to consider the full range of utility infrastructure provision options including ... cumulative impacts to the World Heritage Area values as a result of associated with multiple LNG facilities on Curtis Island."

Comment is being sought from Santos.