Abbot Point Bulkcoal charged over Abbot Point sediment water discharge

Issued: 5 Sep 2018

The environmental regulator has taken further action against Abbot Point Bulkcoal Pty Ltd (APBC) over an unauthorised discharge of sediment water from the Abbot Point coal terminal during Cyclone Debbie.

The Department of Environment and Science (DES) has charged APBC with one offence of contravening a temporary emissions licence (TEL).

It is alleged APBC discharged sediment water from a location called W2 – that was eight times above levels authorised by DES in the TEL.

No known environmental impacts occurred as a result of the discharge.

Last year APBC contested a $12,190 penalty infringement notice in relation to the discharge from W2. Following this election, DES conducted a formal investigation in accordance with its usual practice. The charge follows this investigation.

The maximum fine for this offence is $2.7 million.

The matter is listed for mention in the Bowen Magistrates Court on 23 October 2018.

This charge is not in relation to the Caley Valley Wetlands.