Qld accused of shakedown of miners

Queensland's opposition has accused the state government of trying to end mining in the state with its request for money in return for a royalties freeze.

Coal mining Queensland

File photo of a Queensland coal mine Source: AAP

Queensland's government has been accused of trying to prevent the resources sector from ever opening a new mine in the state again.

Treasurer Jackie Trad has asked big coal miners to give some of their profits from Queensland to a new regional infrastructure fund, on top of their existing community investment.

If they choose to put $70 million into the fund, she says she won't raise coal royalty fees for three years.

LNP Leader Deb Frecklington says Ms Trad is trying to prevent new mining in the state.

"This is extortion, it is blackmail, no matter how you look at it," Ms Frecklington told reporters on Thursday.

"This is a shakedown of the resources industry to try to prevent them from ever opening a new mine in Queensland again."

Comment was being sought from Ms Trad, who had said she was expecting a response on Thursday from industry.

Whatever happens, Ms Trad has promised there will be no hike in royalties in the state budget on June 11.

The state government will put $30 million into the fund.


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Source: AAP



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