Data as at 14 September 2026 · from the Queensland EP Act public register
EPML00418713 · Monto Coal Project
Coal environmental authority EPML00418713 (Monto Coal Project), Granted. 124 conditions indexed. Holds PRC plan P-PRCP-100913111.
- Status
- Granted
- Holders
- MONTO COAL 2 PTY LTD; SANRUS PTY LTD
- Tenures
- ML80101; ML80175
- PRC plan
- P-PRCP-100913111 · effective 2025-08-28
- How it was read
- Numbered conditions
- Register
- Register record · Instrument PDF
Conditions
124 numbered conditions read from the current instrument. Page numbers link into the register PDF.
- A1
This environmental authority authorises environmental harm referred to in the conditions. Where there is no condition or this environmental authority is silent on a matter, the lack of a condition or silence does not authorise environmental harm.
- A2
This environmental authority authorises the mining of a maximum of 1.5 million tonnes run of mine (ROM) coal per annum (Mtpa).
- A3
Authorised Activities In carrying out the site mining activities authorised by this environmental authority, disturbance of land in Figure 1 (Disturbance Footprint): (a) May occur in the area marked `A'; (b) Must not occur in the areas marked `B'; and (c) May occur in the areas marked `C', but only in accordance with Conditions A4 and A5.
- A4
Any disturbance within the areas marked `C' on Figure 1 (Disturbance Footprint) is only authorised to the extent reasonably necessary for: (a) Exploration activities; (b) Roads; (c) Fences; (d) Underground services; (e) Low-impact telecommunications facilities; (f) Electrical sub-stations; (g) Transmission grid works and supply network works; (h) Storage depots; and (i) Similar minor infrastructure and ancillary facilities for any of the above.
- A5
Any disturbance within areas marked `A' or `C' on Figure 1 (Disturbance Footprint) must not adversely impact on areas marked `B'.
- A6
Monitoring Except where specified in another condition of this environmental authority, all monitoring records or reports required by this environmental authority must be kept for a period of not less than six (6) years.
- A7
All monitoring and determinations required under any condition of this environmental authority must be conducted by an appropriately qualified person. OFFICIAL Permit Environmental authority EPML00418713 - Monto Coal Project
- A8
Upon request from the administering authority, copies of monitoring results, complaints, records, registers, management plans and reports required by the conditions of this environmental authority must be made available in the requested format and provided to the administering authority within (a) Ten (10) business days; or (b) An alternative timeframe agreed between the administering authority and the environmental authority holder.
- A9
Contravention of Conditions Any contravention, or likely contravention, of a condition of this environmental authority must be reported to the administering authority within twenty-four (24) hours of becoming aware of the contravention.
- A10
Within twenty-eight (28) days (or a longer period agreed to in writing by the administering authority) of making a notification under Condition A9 an investigation must be undertaken to determine: (a) The potential circumstances and actions on site that may have contributed to the contravention; and (b) Reasonable measures that could be implemented to address the cause of the contravention to prevent future contraventions of this nature.
- A11
Measures identified under Condition A10 must be implemented within: (a) Twenty-eight (28) days of the investigation required by Condition A10 being finalised; or (b) A longer period agreed to in writing by the administering authority.
- A12
The following details must be recorded for all contraventions of the environmental authority: (a) Date and time the contravention occurred (if known); (b) Nature and details of the contravention; (c) Investigations carried out in response to the contravention as required by Condition A10; (d) The results of investigations; and (e) Measures taken under Condition A11.
- A13
Complaints An investigation must be undertaken within twenty-eight (28) days (or a longer period agreed to in writing by the administering authority) into all complaints received to determine: (a) The potential circumstances and actions on site that may have contributed to the basis of the complaint; and (b) Reasonable measures that could be implemented to address the complaint.
- A14
Measures identified under Condition A13 must be implemented within: (a) Twenty-eight (28) days of the investigation required by Condition A13 being finalised; or (b) A longer period agreed to in writing by the administering authority. OFFICIAL Permit Environmental authority EPML00418713 - Monto Coal Project
- A15
The following details must be recorded for all environmental complaints received: (a) Date and time the complaint was received; (b) If authorised by the person making the complaint, their name and contact details; (c) Nature and details of the complaint; (d) Investigations carried out in response to the complaint as required by condition A13; (e) The results of investigations; and (f) Measures taken under condition A14.
- A16
Third-Party Audits The environmental authority holder must ensure that: (a) An appropriately qualified person carries out and documents an audit of all conditions of this environmental authority within one (1) year of commencement of Mining Operations; (b) Further audits in accordance with a) are conducted at intervals not exceeding once every three (3) years from completion of the initial audit; and (c) Necessary corrective actions to achieve compliance with the conditions of this environmental authority are implemented within twenty (20) business days of the date each audit is carried out.
- A17
All documents (including plans, procedures, programs, reports and methodologies) required by this environmental authority must be: (a) Developed and endorsed in writing as being compliant with the conditions of this environmental authority by an appropriately qualified person; (b) Implemented in accordance with the requirements stated within the document; (c) In effect at all times during the carrying out of the activity; and (d) Reviewed and re-endorsed in writing as being in compliance with the conditions of this environmental authority by an appropriately qualified person at least annually or an alternative timeframe as agreed with the administering authority.
- A18
Risk Management The holder must develop and implement a risk management system for the activities which is equivalent to the content requirement of the Environmental Management Standard (ISO14001:2015) or Australian standard for Environment management (AS/NZS ISO 14001:2016) or as per an alternative risk assessment standard or guideline within three (3) months of the commencement of Mining Operations. OFFICIAL Permit Environmental authority EPML00418713 - Monto Coal Project
- A19
Where a condition of this environmental authority requires compliance with a standard, policy or guideline published externally to this environmental authority and the standard is amended or changed subsequent to the issue of this environmental authority, the environmental authority holder must: (a) Comply with the amended or changed standard, policy or guideline within two (2) years of the amendment or change being made, unless a different period is specified in the amended standard or relevant legislation, or where the amendment or change relates specifically to regulated structures, the time specified in those conditions; and (b) Until compliance with the amended or changed standard, policy or guideline is achieved, continue to remain in compliance with the corresponding provision that was current immediately prior to the relevant amendment or change.
- A20
Maintenance of Measures, Plant and Equipment The environmental authority holder must: (a) Install all measures, plant and equipment necessary to ensure compliance with the conditions of this environmental authority; (b) Maintain such measures, plant and equipment in a proper condition; (c) Operate such measures, plant and equipment in a proper manner; and (d) Ensure all instruments and devices used for the measurement or monitoring of any parameter under any condition of this environmental authority are properly calibrated.
- A21
Storage and Handling of Chemicals and Fuels Spillage of all chemicals and fuels must be contained within an on-site containment system and controlled in a manner that prevents environmental harm and maintained in accordance with Section 5 of `AS 1940-2004 Storage and Handling of Flammable and Combustible Liquids of 2004'.
- A22
Community Consultation Program The environmental authority holder must develop and maintain a community consultation program for the duration of Mining Operations. The community consultation program must include a regular community forum occurring at intervals no greater than quarterly (i.e. three-month) intervals, within which: (a) Affected persons within the North Burnett Regional Council are given the opportunity to raise concerns regarding mining progress and emerging issues; and (b) The environmental authority holder conveys information regarding mining progress and emerging issues.
- A23
Commencement of Mining The environmental authority holder must not commence Mining Operations until the requirements of Condition A26 are met to the satisfaction of the administering authority. OFFICIAL Permit Environmental authority EPML00418713 - Monto Coal Project
- A24
Pre-Commencement of Mining Operations: Prior to the commencement of Mining Operations, the environmental authority holder must submit to the administering authority information to replace `TBD', `TBA' and `blank' in all of the following: (a) Table B2 (Dust and Particulate Matter Monitoring Point Locations); (b) Table C1 (Sediment Dam Release Limits); (c) Table C2 (Surface Water Monitoring Points); (d) Table C3 (Sediment Dam Release Locations); (e) Table G1 (Groundwater Monitoring Locations and Frequency); (f) Table G2 (Groundwater Quality Limits); (g) Table G3 (Groundwater Standing Water Level Trigger Threshold); and (h) Figure 2 (Groundwater Monitoring Bore Locations).
- A25
Notification of Commencement of Mining Operations The environmental authority holder must: (a) Provide a written statement advising the administering authority of the date for when Mining Operations will commence (the Commencement Date) under this environmental authority; and (b) Provide the written statement to the administering authority at least five (5) business days before the commencement of Mining Operations. OFFICIAL Permit Environmental authority EPML00418713 - Monto Coal Project Schedule B: Air Condition Condition number
- B1
Dust Nuisance The release of dust or particulate matter or both resulting from the activity must not cause an environmental nuisance at any sensitive or commercial place.
- B2
Dust and Particulate Matter Limits For the purposes of Condition B1, an environmental nuisance includes any instance where an exceedance of any of the below levels is measured in accordance with the relevant method(s) in Table B1 (Dust, Particulate Matter and Meteorological Monitoring Methods): (a) Dust deposition of 120 milligrams per square metre per day on a monthly average; or (b) A concentration of particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter of less than 10 micrometres (-m) (PM10) suspended in the atmosphere of 50 micrograms per cubic metre over a 24-hour averaging time, at a sensitive or commercial place downwind of the licensed place.
- B3
Where monitoring identifies instances where a concentration specified in Condition B2 is exceeded at any sensitive place or commercial place, the environmental authority holder must report to the administering authority within ten (10) business days: (a) The air quality data at the sensitive place or commercial place; (b) A description of meteorological conditions recorded in accordance with Table B1 (Dust and Particulate Matter Monitoring Methods) and Table B2 (Dust and Particulate Matter Monitoring Locations at the time of exceedance; (c) The air quality data upwind of Mining Operations (if known); and (d) Measures taken to reduce dust generated by the mining activities. OFFICIAL Permit Environmental authority EPML00418713 - Monto Coal Project
- B4
Dust Management Plan A Dust Management Plan must be developed, implemented and maintained by an appropriately qualified person for all stages of the authorised mining activities. The Dust Management Plan must be submitted to the administering authority for review and comment prior to the commencement of Mining Operations. The Dust Management Plan must include the following as a minimum: (a) Identification of all potential sensitive and commercial places which may be affected by air quality impacts from mining activities; (b) Identification of all major sources of air emissions that may occur as a result of mining activities; (c) Identification of the number and location of monitoring sites representative of variability of meteorological conditions and distribution of sensitive and commercial places; (d) Identification of monitoring methodologies for each monitoring location; (e) A description of the procedures to manage the air emissions from the sources identified; (f) Meteorological condition monitoring; (g) A dust control strategy which activates a timely implementation of dust control management actions aimed to avoid or minimise elevated levels of dust including PM10 at a sensitive place or commercial place due to mining activities; (h) Consideration of best practice environmental management dust control measures; (i) Description of procedures to be undertaken if any exceedance of air quality objectives is detected; (j) Roles and responsibilities; and (k) Incorporation of an annual review of the Dust Management Plan for continuous improvement for the management of dust and particulate matter resulting from the activity. OFFICIAL Permit Environmental authority EPML00418713 - Monto Coal Project Table B1 (Dust, Particulate Matter and Meteorological Monitoring Methods) Air Quality Parameter Monitoring Method Deposited dust Australian Standard AS3580.10.1 Methods for sampling and analysis of ambient air - Determination of particulate matter - Deposited matter - Gravimetric method. Particulate matter with an Real time monitoring of the 24-hour average using the following method: aerodynamic diameter of less than 10 micrometres (PM10) (i) Australian Standard AS3580.9.6 Methods for sampling and analysis of ambient air - Determination of suspended particulate matter - PM10 high volume sampler with size selective inlet - Gravimetric method; or (ii) Australian Standard AS3580.9.7 Methods for sampling and analysis of ambient air - Determination of suspended particulate matter -
- C1
Contaminants must not be released to any waters or the bed and banks of any waters other than treated or settled stormwater from sediment dam(s) that comply with the contaminant release limits in Table C1 (Sediment Dam Release Limits).
- C2
The environmental authority holder must not release mine affected water to the receiving environment.
- C3
Monitoring of contaminant releases must be undertaken at the overflow or spillway from the sediment dam(s) for the quality characteristics, and at the frequency specified in Table C1 (Sediment Dam Release Limits). OFFICIAL Permit Environmental authority EPML00418713 - Monto Coal Project Table C1 (Sediment Dam Release Limits) Quality Characteristic Units Release Limit Monitoring Frequency Total Dissolved Solids mg/L Must not exceed 500 mg/L or 10 percent greater than a background Upon commencement of release the first Turbidity NTU value* of the receiving waters whichever is the greater. sample must be collected within two (2) pH EC - Must not exceed 50 NTU or 10 percent greater than a background hours. -S/cm value* of the receiving waters whichever is the greater. Subsequent samples must be collected 6.5 - 9.0 (range) daily thereon, and the final sample must be collected within two (2) hours after the Must not exceed 800 -S/cm or 10 percent greater than a background value* of the receiving waters whichever is greater. cessation of release. NOTE: * a "background value" for a quality characteristic is the value of the quality characteristic measured on the same day at a background sampling and in situ monitoring point listed in Table C2 (Surface Water Monitoring Points) in the receiving waters not affected by the release, situated between 20 and 500 metres upstream from the release point into Three Moon Creek. Table C2 (Surface Water Monitoring Points) Monitoring Point Name Monitoring Area Purpose Latitude Longitude Flow Gauge 1 (FG1) (GDA2020) (GDA2020) TBA TBA e.g. Three Moon Creek Upstream (500m Upstream) Flow Gauge and Water TBA TBA TBA e.g. Three Moon Creek Quality Sampling TBA TBA (500m Downstream) Downstream Water Quality Sampling Table C3 (Sediment Dam Locations) OFFICIAL Permit Environmental authority EPML00418713 - Monto Coal Project Sediment Dam Name Receiving Waters Latitude (GDA2020) Longitude (GDA2020) TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA OFFICIAL Permit Environmental authority EPML00418713 - Monto Coal Project
- C4
Water Management Plan The environmental authority holder must develop and maintain a Water Management Plan which meets the requirements of Condition C5, prior to the commencement of Mining Operations.
- C5
The Water Management Plan required under Condition C4 must include the following at a minimum: (a) Be developed, implemented and maintained by an appropriately qualified person; (b) Identification of the environmental values of the receiving waters including three moon creek; (c) Identification of site-specific water quality objectives and how they will be achieved; (d) Identification of contingency procedures in the case of flooding, drought and poor water quality using a risk management approach; (e) A description of the procedures to manage recycling of water on-site; (f) A description of the procedures to manage stormwater discharge; (g) A description of the procedures to develop and implement a system for emergency spills or discharges; (h) A description of the procedures to separate clean water from undisturbed areas and water from disturbed areas; (i) A description of the procedures to manage site water quality and quantity during the three (3) phases of mining: development, operation and decommission, and include a site water balance; (j) A description of the procedures to safeguard against the potential for soil erosion, saline drainage and acid drainage; (k) Provide details of operational monitoring and monitoring of hydrological processes including associated performance indicators; (l) Incorporation of an annual review of the water management plan for continuous improvement for the management of water on site; and (m) A figure of the on-site water management system.
- C6
Receiving Environment Monitoring Program Prior to the commencement of Mining Operations, the environmental authority holder must develop, implement and maintain a Receiving Environment Monitoring Program (REMP) which complies with the requirements of Condition C7. OFFICIAL Permit Environmental authority EPML00418713 - Monto Coal Project
- C7
The REMP required under Condition C6 must at a minimum: (a) Be developed, implemented and maintained by an appropriately qualified person; (b) Identify the waters to be considered the receiving environment, including, but not necessarily limited to three moon creek; (c) Identify any sensitive receiving waters or environmental values downstream of the authorised mining activity that will potentially be affected by the unauthorised release of mine affected water; (d) Monitor, identify, and describe any adverse impacts to surface water environmental values, including quality and flows due to the authorised mining activity; and (e) Monitor the effects of the mine on the receiving environment due to the authorised activity under normal flow conditions and where water is released from the site.
- C8
A report outlining the findings of the REMP required by Condition C7, including all monitoring results and interpretations must be prepared annually. This must include an assessment of background reference water quality, the condition of downstream water quality compared against water quality objectives, and the suitability of current discharge limits to protect downstream environmental values.
- C9
Third-Party Water Reuse Mine affected water may be piped or trucked or transferred by some other means and deposited into artificial water storage structures, such as farm dams or tanks, or used directly at properties owned by the environmental authority holder or a third-party for the purpose of: (a) Supplying stock water; (b) Supplying irrigation water; (c) Supplying water for construction and/or road maintenance; or (d) Some other purpose, to which the administering authority agrees in writing.
- C10
If the responsibility of mine affected water (the water) is to be given or transferred to another person in accordance with Condition C9: (a) The responsibility for the mine affected water must only be given or transferred in accordance with a written agreement (the third-party agreement); (b) The third-party agreement must include a commitment from the person utilising the mine affected water to use it in such a way as to prevent environmental harm or public health incidents and specifically make the persons aware of the General Environmental Duty (GED) under s. 319 of the Environmental Protection Act 1994, environmental sustainability of the water disposal and protection of environmental values of waters; and (c) The third-party agreement must be signed by both parties to the agreement.
- C11
Erosion and Sediment Control Plan All reasonable and practicable erosion protection measures and sediment control measures must be implemented and maintained to minimise erosion and the release of sediment to waters for all stages of the Mining Operations. . OFFICIAL Permit Environmental authority EPML00418713 - Monto Coal Project
- C12
Erosion protection measures and sediment controls must be provided and maintained to effectively minimise any likelihood of erosion and release of sediments from the licensed place and be maintained during Mining Operations. Such measures should include diversion drainage works and sedimentation traps and dams. OFFICIAL Permit Environmental authority EPML00418713 - Monto Coal Project Schedule D: Noise and Vibration Condition Condition number
- D1
Noise Limits Noise generated by the Mining Operations must not exceed the limits in Table D1 (Noise Limits at Sensitive and Commercial Places) at a sensitive or commercial place. Table D1 (Noise Limits Measured at Sensitive and Commercial Places) Noise level dB(A) Noise measured at a 'Sensitive place' measured as All days 7am - 6pm 6pm - 10pm 10pm - 7am CV = 50 CV = 45 CV = 40 AV = 5 AV = 5 AV = 0 LAeq, adj, 15 mins bg = 32 bg = 34 bg = 30 LA1, adj, 15 mins NL = 40 NL = 42 NL = 34 Noise level dB(A) CV = 55 CV = 50 CV = 45 measured as AV = 10 AV = 10 AV = 5 bg = 32 bg = 34 bg = 30 NL = 45 NL =47 NL = 39 Noise measured at a `Commercial place' 7am - 6pm 6pm - 10pm 10pm - 7am LAeq, adj, 15 mins CV = 55 CV = 50 CV = 45 AV = 10 AV =10 AV = 5 bg = 32 bg = 34 bg = 30 NL = 45 NL =47 NL = 39 NOTE: 1. CV = Critical Value; 2. AV = Adjustment Value; 3. bg = background noise level (LA90, adj, 15 mins) 4. NL = Noise Limit 5. To calculate noise limits in Table D1: If bg (CV - AV) then Noise limit = bg + AV If (CV - AV) < bg CV, then Noise limit = CV If bg > CV, then Noise limit = bg +0 6. In the event that measured bg( LA90, adj, 15 mins) is less than 30 dB(A), then 30 dB(A) can be substituted for the measured background level OFFICIAL Permit Environmental authority EPML00418713 - Monto Coal Project
- D2
Noise Monitoring Program Prior to the commencement of Mining Operations, the environmental authority holder must develop, implement and maintain a Noise Monitoring Program which complies with the requirements of Condition D3.
- D3
The Noise Monitoring Program required under Condition D2 must be conducted in accordance with the most recent edition of the administering authority's Noise Measurement Manual matters: (a) Background noise (LA90); (b) LA10, adj, 15 min; (c) LA1, adj, 15 min; (d) LAeq, adj, 15 min; (e) Max LpA; (f) The level and frequency of occurrence of impulsive or tonal noise and any adjustment and penalties to statistical levels; atmospheric conditions including temperature, relative humidity, wind speed and wind directions; (g) Effects due to any extraneous factors such as traffic noise; (h) Location, date and time of monitoring; (i) An assessment of any low frequency noise; and (j) Where monitoring concerns a complaint, low frequency noise, Max LpLIN,T and one third octave band measurements in dB(LIN) for centre frequencies in the 10 - 200 Hz range.
- D4
When requested by the administering authority, noise monitoring must be undertaken within a reasonable and practicable timeframe nominated by the administering authority to investigate any complaint (which is neither frivolous nor vexatious nor based on mistaken belief in the opinion of an authorised officer) of environmental nuisance at any sensitive or commercial place, and the results must be notified within fourteen (14) days to the administering authority following completion of monitoring. OFFICIAL Permit Environmental authority EPML00418713 - Monto Coal Project
- D5
Noise Investigation Report In the event of a complaint about noise environmental nuisance that the administering authority considers is not frivolous or vexatious then a Noise Investigation Report is to be developed and completed within twenty-eight (28) days of the environmental authority holder being advised in writing of the complaint. The Noise Investigation Report must address at least, but not be limited to, the following matters: (a) Identification of component noise sources and activities at the place(s) which impact on noise sensitive areas; (b) The measured and/or predicted level of these noise sources and activities at noise sensitive places; (c) The reasonable and practicable control or abatement measures that can be undertaken to reduce identified intrusive noise sources; (d) The level of noise at noise sensitive places that would be achieved from implementing these measures; (e) The handling of future noise complaints; (f) Community liaison and consultation; and (g) Training of staff in noise management practices.
- D6
Upon the completion of the Noise Investigation Report in accordance with Condition D5, the Report must be submitted to the administering authority within fourteen (14) days for review and comment.
- D7
After the administering authority has provided comment on the Noise Investigation Report in accordance with Condition D6, the environmental authority holder must consider implementation of any recommendations in the Report within the stated timeframe of the recommendations.
- D8
Noise Management Plan Prior to the commencement of Mining Operations, the environmental authority holder must develop, implement and maintain a Noise Management Plan which meets the requirements of Condition D9.
- D9
The Noise Management Plan required under Condition D8 must include the following as a minimum: (a) Describe the reasonable and practicable methods by which Mining Operations will be carried out as necessary to prevent the emission of noise that constitutes an unreasonable intrusive noise; and (b) Incorporation of an annual review of the Noise Management Plan for continuous improvement for the management of noise resulting from the activity.
- D10
Airblast Overpressure Nuisance Blasting may only be carried out between 9.00am to 7.00pm Monday to Friday excluding public holidays and must not exceed the limits prescribed in Table D2 (Blasting Noise and Vibration Limits) at a sensitive place or commercial place. OFFICIAL Permit Environmental authority EPML00418713 - Monto Coal Project Table D2 (Blasting Noise and Vibration Limits) Blasting Noise and Sensitive Places Commercial Places Vibration Limits Airblast 115 dB (Linear) Peak for 9 out of 10 consecutive blasts initiated and not greater than Overpressure 120 dB (Linear) Peak at any time Ground Vibration 5mm/second peak particle velocity for 9 10mm/second peak particle velocity for Peak Particle out of 10 consecutive blasts and not 9 out of 10 consecutive blasts and not Velocity greater than 10 mm/second peak particle greater than 15mm/second peak velocity at any time particle velocity at any time.
- D11
Blasting Monitoring Program Prior to the commencement of Mining Operations, the environmental authority holder must develop, implement and maintain a Blasting Monitoring Program which complies with the requirements of Condition D12.
- D12
The Blast Monitoring Program required under Condition D11 must be conducted in accordance with the most recent edition of the administering authority's guideline Noise and vibration from following matters: (a) Peak particle velocity (mm/s); and (b) Location of the blast/s within the site (including which bench level); and (c) Atmospheric conditions including temperature, relative humidity and wind speed and direction; and (d) The level and frequency of occurrence of impulsive or tonal noise; and (e) Effects due to extraneous factors; (f) Location, date and time of recording; and (g) Compliance with Condition D2 and Table D2 (Blasting Noise and Vibration Limits) for: (i) At least 80% of all blasts undertaken on this site in each calendar year at the nearest sensitive place or commercial place; and (ii) All blasts conducted during any time period specified by the administering authority at the nearest sensitive place or commercial place. OFFICIAL Permit Environmental authority EPML00418713 - Monto Coal Project Schedule E: Waste Condition Condition number
- E1
Disposal and Storage of Tyres Disposing of scrap tyres in spoil emplacements is acceptable, provided tyres are disposed of in accordance with the latest edition of the administering authority's operational policy Disposal and
- E2
Waste Management Plan From the commencement of Mining Operations, the environmental authority holder must develop and implement a Waste Management Plan in accordance with the Waste Reduction and Recycling Act 2011, that must at least: (a) Describe how Monto Coal Mine recognises and applies the waste and resource management hierarchy (b) Identify the waste streams from the project; (c) Nominate a program for the safe recycling or disposal of all wastes, which reuse and recycling options utilised where practicable; (d) Propose waste management control strategies that must consider: (i) The type of wastes; (ii) Segregation of the wastes; (iii) Storage of the wastes (iv) Transport of the wastes; (v) Monitoring and reporting matters concerning the waste; (vi) Emergency response planning; (vii) Disposal, reuse and recycling options. (e) Detail the hazardous characteristics of the waste generated (if any); (f) Cover a disposal procedure for hazardous waste; (g) Outline the process to be implemented to allow for continuous improvement of the waste management systems, including an annual review; (h) Identify responsible staff (positions) for implementing, managing and reporting on the Waste Management Plan; and (i) Cover a staff awareness and induction program with regard to the content of the Waste Management Plan.
- E3
Burning Waste Unless otherwise permitted by the conditions of this environmental authority or with prior approval from the administering authority and in accordance with a relevant standard operating procedure, waste must not be burnt. OFFICIAL Permit Environmental authority EPML00418713 - Monto Coal Project
- E4
The holder of this environmental authority may burn vegetation cleared in the course of carrying out extraction activities, with relevant rural fire services permits obtained, provided that the activity does not cause environmental nuisance at any sensitive place or commercial place.
- E5
Mineral Waste Management Plan The environmental authority holder must develop a Mineral Waste Management Plan which meets the requirements of Condition E6, prior to the commencement of Mining Operations, and implement for the duration of mining operations.
- E6
The Mineral Waste Management Plan required under Condition E5 must be developed, implemented and maintained by an appropriately qualified person and include the following as a minimum: (a) A map of the location(s) of mineral waste placement; (b) Effective characterisation of mineral waste to predict under the proposed placement and disposal strategy the quality of runoff and seepage generated concerning potentially environmentally significant effects including salinity, acidity, alkalinity and dissolved metals, metalloids and non-metallic inorganic substances; (c) A program of progressive sampling and characterisation to identify: (i) Dispersive and non-dispersive spoil; (ii) The salinity, acid and alkali producing potential and metal concentrations of mineral waste; (iii) Acid producing potential and metal concentrations of tailings; (a) A materials balance and disposal plan which demonstrates how acid forming and potentially acid forming mineral waste will be selectively placed and/or encapsulated to minimise the potential generation of acid mine drainage; (b) Where mineral waste is encapsulated, a sampling program to verify encapsulation and/or placement of acid forming and potentially acid forming mineral waste; (c) A description of the methods of tailings containment within tailings storage facilities; (d) Details as to how seepage or leachate, if any, from tailings storage facilities will be monitored and managed; and (e) Incorporation of an annual review of the Mineral Waste Management Plan for continuous improvement for the management of mineral waste resulting from the activity. OFFICIAL Permit Environmental authority EPML00418713 - Monto Coal Project Schedule F: Land Condition Condition number
- G1
Groundwater The environmental authority holder must not release contaminants, directly or indirectly, to groundwater.
- G2
The construction, maintenance operation and decommissioning of each monitoring bore must be undertaken in a manner that: (a) Prevents contaminants entering the groundwater; and (b) Ensures representative groundwater samples from the target hydrogeological unit (aquifer).
- G3
A bore report must be kept for each monitoring bore which includes: (a) Identification reference number and geographic coordinate location; (b) Construction information including but not limited to depth of bore, depth and length of casing, depth and length of screening and bore sealing details; (c) Lithological strata, stratigraphy and target hydrogeological unit (aquifer) of the bore; and (d) Pre-development standing groundwater level at the time the bore was drilled.
- G4
Monitoring and sampling must be carried out in accordance with the requirements of the latest version of the following documents unless otherwise approved by the administering authority: (a) Monitoring and Sampling Manual: Environmental Protection (Water) Policy, Department of Environment and Science, 2018; (b) Groundwater Sampling and Analysis - A Field Guide (2009:27 GeoCat#6890.1); and (c) Australian Standard AS/NZS 5667.11:1998 Water quality--Sampling -Part 11: Guidance on sampling of groundwaters.
- G5
Groundwater monitoring Groundwater quality and standing water level must be monitored: (a) At the locations and frequencies defined in Table G1 (Groundwater Monitoring Locations and Frequency), and as illustrated in Figure 2 (Groundwater Monitoring Bore Locations); and (b) For quality characteristics identified in Table G2 (Groundwater Quality Limits). OFFICIAL Permit Environmental authority EPML00418713 - Monto Coal Project Table G1 (Groundwater Monitoring Locations and Frequency) Compliance Location (GDA2020) Monitoring assessment Frequency Screened Monitoring Hydrogeological required Surface Interval RL* (m) RL (m) Bore Unit (Aquifer) Standing Water Water Water Water quality level quality level (Y/N) Latitude Longitude (Y/N) Background Bores
- MB1
Alluvium Y Y Monthly Monthly Monthly Monthly
- MB3
Mulgildie Coal Y Measures (MCM) Etc. Etc. Compliance Bores
- MB2
Alluvium NOTE: * `RL' means relative level. OFFICIAL Permit Environmental authority EPML00418713 - Monto Coal Project Table G2 (Groundwater Quality Trigger Limits) Quality Characteristic Unit Monitoring Bore(s) Contaminant TBD Limit TBD TBD (95th Percentile) TBD Limit Sources Note: Source of each limit and any other sampling or analysis instructions should be provided here. E.g. 1 - All metals and metalloids must be measured as total (unfiltered) and dissolved (filtered). 2 - ANZG (2018) Aquatic ecosystem protection for moderately disturbed system (95% protection) OFFICIAL Permit Environmental authority EPML00418713 - Monto Coal Project
- G6
Groundwater Quality If groundwater quality characteristics at the compliance bores identified in Table G1 (Groundwater Monitoring Locations and Frequency) exceed the Contaminant Limits specified in Table G2 (Groundwater Quality Limits) on three (3) consecutive occasions, the holder of the environmental authority must notify the administering authority via WaTERS within twenty-four (24) hours of receiving the results.
- G7
Trigger Investigation If monitoring results from water quality compliance bores listed in Table G1 (Groundwater Monitoring Locations and Frequency) exceed any of the Contaminant Limits specified in Table
- G2
(Groundwater Quality Limits) on three (3) consecutive occasions, the approval holder must complete an investigation within fourteen (14) days of receiving the results to determine if the exceedance is a result of: (a) Activities authorised under this environmental authority; (b) Natural variation; or (c) Neighbouring land use resulting in groundwater impacts.
- G8
The holder of this environmental authority must provide a report of the investigation required under Condition G7 to the administering authority within fourteen (14) days of completion of the investigation.
- G9
If the investigation under Condition G7 determines that the exceedance was the result of activities authorised under this environmental authority, then a further investigation must be completed within twenty-eight (28) days by the environmental authority holder to determine the source, cause and extent of contamination and implement appropriate mitigation and management measures to address any existing groundwater contamination and prevent recurrence of groundwater contamination.
- G10
Groundwater Standing Water Level Groundwater standing water level when measured at the water level compliance bores specified in Table G1 (Groundwater Monitoring Locations and Frequency) must not exceed the Level Trigger Thresholds specified in Table G3 (Groundwater Standing Water Level Trigger Threshold). OFFICIAL Permit Environmental authority EPML00418713 - Monto Coal Project
- G11
If the Level Trigger Thresholds of groundwater measured at any compliance bore specified in Table
- G1
(Groundwater Monitoring Locations and Frequency) exceeds any of the corresponding trigger levels specified in Table G3 (Groundwater Standing Water Level Trigger Threshold) on three (3) consecutive occasions, the holder of the environmental authority must: (a) Notify the administering authority via WaTERS within twenty-four (24) hours of receiving the results; (b) Complete an investigation into the cause of the exceedance within ten (10) business days; and (c) If the investigation carried out under part b) determines that the mining activities are a potential cause or contributor to the exceedance (i) Notify the administering via WaTERS within twenty-four (24) hours of making the determination; and (ii) Take immediate action to ensure compliance with Condition G1 of this environmental authority. Table G3 (Groundwater Standing Water Level Trigger Threshold) Monitoring Monitored Unit Pre-mining Year 3 Level Maximum Level Trigger Location TBD baseline level Trigger Threshold* Threshold TBD (mAHD) TBD TBD TBD NOTE: * Refers to 3 years post-commencement of Mining Operations. 90th percentile predicted maximum cumulative drawdown over the life of the Project beyond any background non-mining related influence, except where specifically identified. OFFICIAL Permit Environmental authority EPML00418713 - Monto Coal Project
- G12
Baseline Groundwater Monitoring Program A baseline groundwater monitoring program must be developed and implemented by a suitably qualified person(s) and be provided to the administering authority.
- G13
The Baseline Groundwater Monitoring Program must be provided to the administering authority at least ninety (90) days prior to commencement of Mining Operations, excluding surface construction activities.
- G14
The Baseline Groundwater Monitoring Program must: (a) Continue until the Groundwater Monitoring and Management Program (GMMP) required under Condition G15 commences; (b) Contain representative groundwater quality samples from the geological units identified as potentially affected by mining activities; (c) Include at least twelve (12) sampling events that are no more than two (2) months apart over a two (2) year period, so as to determine background groundwater quality; (d) Include a conceptual model used to determine the location of ground water bores; (e) Nominate suitable monitoring locations, duration and frequency to populate Table G1 (Groundwater Monitoring Locations and Frequency) and determine baseline groundwater quality and level as determined by a suitably qualified person; (f) Allow for the identification of natural groundwater level trends and groundwater contaminant trigger levels; (g) Identify suitable trigger limits to populate Table G2 (Groundwater Quality Limits) and Table G3 (Groundwater Standing Water Level Trigger Threshold); (h) Complete an investigation to demonstrate that groundwater drawdown resulting from the activity will not impact environmental values including but not limited to Groundwater Dependent Ecosystems (GDEs); (i) Proposed mitigation and monitoring measures to ensure the activity will not impact environmental values; and (j) Detail how impacts to prescribed environmental matters have been or will be avoided as a result of the disturbance with the installation of proposed bores.
- G15
Groundwater Monitoring and Management Program At least ninety (90) days prior to the commencement of Mining Operations, the environmental authority holder must develop, implement and maintain a Groundwater Monitoring and Management Program (GMMP) which complies with the requirements of Condition G16, and provide a copy of the GMMP to the administering authority. OFFICIAL Permit Environmental authority EPML00418713 - Monto Coal Project
- G16
The Groundwater Monitoring and Management Program required under Condition G15 must at a minimum: (a) Identify all potential sources of contamination to groundwater from the activities authorised under this environmental authority; (b) Provide a hydrogeological conceptual groundwater model; (c) Identify all environmental values that may be impacted; (d) Detail groundwater levels in all identified aquifers present across and adjacent to the site to confirm existing groundwater flow paths; (e) Ensure all potential groundwater impacts due the activities authorised under this environmental authority are identified, monitored and mitigated; (f) Ensure adequate groundwater monitoring and data analysis is undertaken to: (i) Detect any impacts to groundwater level due to the mining activities and rehabilitation activities; (ii) Detect any impacts to groundwater quality due to the mining activities and rehabilitation activities; (iii) Determine compliance with Conditions G6 and G10; (iv) Determine trends in groundwater quality; and (v) Determine any interaction or impact from groundwater on surface water (groundwater monitoring locations should align with receiving environment surface water quality monitoring locations), if appropriate; (a) Document groundwater management and monitoring methodologies; (b) Provide an appropriate quality assurance and quality control program; and (c) Include a review process to identify improvements to the program and to address any comments provided by the administering authority.
- G17
The GMMP must be reviewed on an annual basis by an appropriately qualified person to determine if it continues to meet the requirements stated in Condition G16. Any recommended changes to the GMMP must be submitted to the administering authority for approval.
- G18
An Annual Groundwater Monitoring Report (AGMR) is required to be completed and submitted to the administering authority commencing after the first year of Mining Operations.
- G19
The AGMR required by Condition G18 must include: (a) The groundwater quality and standing water level of all groundwater bores listed within Table
- G1
(Groundwater Monitoring Locations and Frequency); (b) An assessment of long-term water quality and water level trends at all groundwater bores listed in Table G1 (Groundwater Monitoring Locations and Frequency); (c) Details of any review undertaken of the groundwater conceptual model; (d) An assessment of any differences between the groundwater level impact predicted and actual impacts for the corresponding period; and (e) Comparison with receiving environment surface water quality monitoring results to determine any interaction or impact from groundwater on surface water. OFFICIAL Permit Environmental authority EPML00418713 - Monto Coal Project
- G20
Groundwater Dependent Ecosystems The extraction of, or interference with, groundwater by the environmental authority holder must not cause environmental harm to any groundwater dependent ecosystem, including, but not limited to: (a) The Three Moon Creek system; and (b) The Abercorn Mound Springs.
- G21
All water monitoring data required under this environmental authority or related to environmental management activities must be provided to the administering authority annually in the specified electronic format via the Queensland Government's Water Tracking and Electronic Reporting System (WaTERS).
- G22
Groundwater Modelling Prior to the commencement of Mining Operations, a Groundwater Modelling Report prepared by a suitably qualified third-party, summarising groundwater modelling undertaken for the area potentially impacted by the activity, must be submitted to the administering authority
- G23
Groundwater modelling, as required by Condition G22, for the area potentially impacted by the activities authorised by this environmental authority, must: (a) Include all hydrogeological units and aquifers potentially impacted by the mining activity; (b) Model the full potential impacts caused by the activity (including spatial extent) for the life of mining activities; (c) Be undertaken in accordance with the most recent version of the `Australian Groundwater Modelling Guidelines'; and (d) Be recalibrated/validated by a suitably qualified third-party at a minimum interval of five (5) years. OFFICIAL Permit Environmental authority EPML00418713 - Monto Coal Project Schedule H: Regulated Structures Condition Condition number
- H1
Assessment of Consequence Category The consequence category of any structure must be assessed by a suitably qualified and experienced person in accordance with the administering authority's Manual for Assessing following times: (a) Prior to the design and construction of the structure, if it is not an existing structure; or (b) Prior to any change in its purpose or the nature of its stored contents.
- H2
A consequence assessment report and certification must be prepared for each structure assessed and the report may include a consequence assessment for more than one structure.
- H3
Certification must be provided by the suitably qualified and experienced person who undertook the assessment, in the form set out in the administering authority's Manual for assessing consequence
- H4
All regulated structures must be designed by, and constructed under the supervision of, a suitably qualified and experienced person in accordance with the requirements of the administering authority's Manual for assessing consequence categories and hydraulic performance of structures
- H5
Construction of a regulated structure is prohibited unless: (a) The holder of the environmental authority has submitted a consequence category assessment report and certification to the administering authority; and (b) Certification for the design, design plan and the associated operating procedures has been certified by a suitably qualified and experienced person in compliance with the relevant condition of this authority.
- H6
Certification must be provided by the suitably qualified and experienced person who oversees the preparation of the design plan in the form set out in the Manual for assessing consequence Register of Regulated Structures. OFFICIAL Permit Environmental authority EPML00418713 - Monto Coal Project
- H7
Regulated structures must: (a) Be designed and constructed in compliance with the Manual for assessing consequence (b) Be designed and constructed with due consideration given to ensuring that the design integrity would not be compromised on account of: (i) Floodwaters from entering a regulated dam from any watercourse or drainage line; and (ii) Wall failure due to erosion by floodwaters arising from any watercourse or drainage line. (c) Have the floor and sides of the dam designed and constructed to prevent or minimise the passage of the wetting front and any entrained contaminants through either the floor or sides of the dam during the operational life of the dam and for any period of decommissioning and rehabilitation of the dam.
- H8
Certification by the suitably qualified and experienced person who supervises the construction must be submitted to the administering authority on the completion of construction of the regulated structure, and state that: (a) The 'as constructed' drawings and specifications meet the original intent of the design plan for that regulated structure; and (b) Construction of the regulated structure is in accordance with the design plan.
- H9
Operation of a regulated structure is prohibited unless the holder of the environmental authority has submitted to the administering authority in respect of regulated structure, all of the following: (a) One paper copy and one electronic copy of the design plan and certification of the `design plan' in accordance with Condition H6; (b) A set of `as constructed' drawings and specifications; (c) Certification of the `as constructed drawings and specifications' in accordance with Condition H8; (d) Where the regulated structure is to be managed as part of an integrated containment system for the purpose of sharing the DSA volume across the system, a copy of the certified system design plan; (e) The requirements of this authority relating to the construction of the regulated structure have been met; (f) The holder of the environmental authority has entered the details required under this authority, into a Register of Regulated Structures; and (g) There is a current operational plan for the regulated structure.
- H10
Each regulated structure must be maintained and operated, for the duration of its operational life until decommissioned and rehabilitated, in compliance with the current operational plan and, if applicable, the current design plan and associated certified `as constructed' drawings.
- H11
Conditions H12 to H15 inclusive only apply to Regulated Dams which have not been certified as low consequence category for `failure to contain - overtopping'. OFFICIAL Permit Environmental authority EPML00418713 - Monto Coal Project
- H12
The Mandatory Reporting Level (the MRL) must be marked on a regulated dam in such a way that during routine inspections of that dam, it is clearly observable.
- H13
The holder of the environmental authority must, as soon as practicable but within forty-eight (48) hours of becoming aware, notify the administering authority when the level of the contents of a regulated dam reaches the MRL.
- H14
The holder of the environmental authority must, immediately on becoming aware that the MRL has been reached, act to prevent the occurrence of any unauthorised discharge from the regulated dam.
- H15
The holder of the environmental authority must record any changes to the MRL in the Register of Regulated Structures.
- H16
The holder of the environmental authority must assess the performance of each regulated dam or linked containment system over the preceding November to May period based on actual observations of the available storage in each regulated dam or linked containment system taken prior to 1 July of each year.
- H17
By 1 November of each year, storage capacity must be available in each regulated dam (or network of linked containment systems with a shared DSA volume), to meet the Design Storage Allowance (DSA) volume for the dam (or network of linked containment systems).
- H18
The holder of the environmental authority must, as soon as practicable but within forty-eight (48) hours of becoming aware that the regulated dam (or network of linked containment systems) will not have the available storage to meet the DSA volume on 1 November of any year, notify the administering authority.
- H19
The holder of the environmental authority must, immediately on becoming aware that a regulated dam (or network of linked containment systems) will not have the available storage to meet the DSA volume on 1 November of any year, act to prevent the occurrence of any unauthorised discharge from the regulated dam or linked containment systems.
- H20
Each regulated structure must be inspected each calendar year by a suitably qualified and experienced person.
- H21
At each annual inspection, the condition and adequacy of all components of the regulated structure must be assessed and a suitably qualified and experienced person must prepare an annual inspection report containing details of the assessment and include a recommendations section, with any recommended actions to ensure the integrity of the regulated structure or a positive statement that no recommendations are required.
- H22
The suitably qualified and experienced person who prepared the annual inspection report must certify the report in accordance with the Manual for assessing consequence categories and OFFICIAL Permit Environmental authority EPML00418713 - Monto Coal Project
- H23
The holder of the environmental authority must within twenty (20) business days of receipt of the annual inspection report, provide to the administering authority: (a) The recommendations section of the annual inspection report; and (b) If applicable, any actions being taken in response to those recommendations; and (c) If, following receipt of the recommendations and (if applicable) recommended actions, the administering authority requests a copy of the annual inspection report from the holder of this environmental authority, provide this to the administering authority within ten (10) business days of receipt of the request.
- H24
The holder of the environmental authority must provide a copy of any reports, documentation and certifications prepared under this authority, including but not limited to any Register of Regulated Structures, consequence assessment, design plan and other supporting documentation, to a new holder of this environmental authority on transfer of this authority
- H25
A Register of Regulated Structures must be established and maintained by the holder of the environmental authority for each regulated structure.
- H26
The holder of the environmental authority must provisionally enter the required information in the Register of Regulated Structures when a design plan for a regulated structure is submitted to the administering authority.
- H27
The holder of the environmental authority must make a final entry of the required information in the Register of Regulated Structures once compliance with Condition H9 has been achieved.
- H28
The holder of the environmental authority must ensure that the information contained in the Register of Regulated Structures is current and complete on any given day.
- H29
All entries in the Register of Regulated Structures must be approved by the chief executive officer for the holder of the environmental authority of this authority, or their delegate, as being accurate and correct.
- H30
The holder of the environmental authority must, at the same time as providing the annual return, supply to the administering authority a copy of the records contained in the Register of Regulated Structures, in the electronic format required by the administering authority OFFICIAL Permit Environmental authority EPML00418713 - Monto Coal Project Schedule I: Sewage Treatment Condition Condition number
- I1
Treated sewage effluent may only be released to land in compliance with the release limits stated in Table I1 (Contaminant Release Limits to Land) and the following requirements: (a) Within a suitable irrigation area (minimum 1 ha excluding any necessary buffer zones) to be selected based on the location of mine infrastructure areas and associated sewage treatment plant(s); (b) Monitoring must be in accordance with the administering authority's Water Quality Sampling Manual (c) The daily volume of treated effluent used for irrigation must be measured and records kept of the volumes of effluent released; (d) Use on haul roads and areas of mining activity for the purpose of dust suppression; (e) Re-use in coal processing; and (f) Use in firefighting.
- I2
Irrigation with treated effluent must be carried out in a manner such that: (a) Vegetation is not damaged; (b) There is no surface ponding of effluent; and (c) There is no run-off of effluent.
- I3
If irrigation areas are accessible to employees or the general public, prominent signage must be provided advising that effluent is present and care should be taken to avoid consuming or otherwise coming into unprotected contact with the effluent.
- I4
When circumstances prevent the irrigation or beneficial reuse of treated sewage effluent such as during or following rain events, waters must be directed to a wet weather storage or alternative measures must be taken to store/lawfully dispose of effluent.
- I5
Water or stormwater contaminated by irrigation activities must not be released to any waters or the bed and banks of any waters.
- I6
Treated sewage effluent must only be supplied to another person or organisation that has a written plan detailing how the user of the treated sewage effluent will comply with their general environmental duty under section 319 of the Environmental Protection Act 1994 whilst using the treated sewage effluent. Note: The supply of treated wastewater for re-use is regulated under the Water Supply (Safety and Reliability) Act 2008. OFFICIAL Permit Environmental authority EPML00418713 - Monto Coal Project Table I1 (Contaminant Release Limits to Land) Contaminant Unit Release limit Limit type Frequency 5-day BOD mg/L 20 Maximum Monthly TSS mg/L 30 Maximum Monthly Nitrogen mg/L 30 Maximum Monthly Phosphorus mg/L 15 Maximum Monthly E-coli CFU/100mL Maximum Monthly pH 1000 Monthly - 6-9 Range END OF CONDITIONS OFFICIAL Permit Environmental authority EPML00418713 - Monto Coal Project Definitions Key terms and/or phrases used in this document are defined in this section. Where a term is not defined, the definition in the Environmental Protection Act 1994, its regulations or environmental protection policies must be used. If a word remains undefined it has its ordinary meaning. Word definitions Abercorn Mound Springs means the springs as stated in the EMOS. Acceptance criteria means the measures by which the actions implemented to rehabilitate the land are deemed to be complete (same as completion criteria). Administering authority means the agency or department that administers the environmental authority provisions under the Environmental Protection Act 1994. Affected persons means groups and persons with demonstrable rights or interest in the land affected by the project. Airblast overpressure means energy transmitted from the blast site within the atmosphere in the form of pressure waves. The maximum excess pressure in this wave, above ambient pressure is the peak airblast overpressure measured in decibels linear (dB). Alluvial aquifers means an aquifer comprising unconsolidated material deposited by water, typically occurring adjacent to watercourses. Ambient (or total) noise at a place, means the level of noise at the place from all sources (near and far), measured as the Leq for an appropriate time interval. Annual exceedance probability or AEP means the probability that the given event will be exceeded within a one year period. Appropriately qualified person means a person who has professional qualifications, training, skills or experience