Queensland Government Removes Heritage Protection for Cape York Mining Project

The Queensland government has removed an Indigenous heritage protection zone for a mining project in Cape York, which is linked to a former LNP operative. The decision was made by the state's environment department, which had previously rejected the mining company's proposal twice.

The move has sparked controversy, as it was part of a court action initiated by traditional owners who claimed they were not given a fair chance to voice their concerns. The mining company, Broken Hill Gold Limited, is co-founded and part-owned by a former LNP operative.

The agreement to scrap the heritage buffer was described as a "surprise" by the traditional owners, who argued that their input was not adequately considered. The decision marks a significant shift in the state's approach to Indigenous heritage protections.