Federal Court Blocks Carmichael Mine Expansion Over Water Risks

In a landmark ruling, the Federal Court today ordered a pause on Adani’s proposed expansion of the Carmichael coal mine in Queensland until a comprehensive groundwater impact study is completed. The court found that existing assessments failed to adequately address risks to the Galilee Basin’s fragile aquifers.

Environmental advocates hailed the decision as a victory for water security in one of Australia’s driest regions. “This ruling underscores the need for rigorous science before any further approvals,” said Christine Milne of the Lock the Gate Alliance. Adani meanwhile warned that halting the project could jeopardize hundreds of jobs in regional communities.

The court has given the federal environment minister 90 days to commission a new study. If the findings confirm minimal risk to water tables, the expansion may proceed under tighter monitoring conditions.