Albanese government approves first new coal mine since taking power

Environment activists condemn expected decision by Tanya Plibersek to give green light to the Isaac River mine in central Queensland

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The Australian government has approved a new coal mine development for the first time since it was elected last year.

Tanya Plibersek, the federal environment minister, indicated she would give the green light to the Isaac River coal mine in Queensland’s Bowen basin. It was announced late on Thursday.