Data as at 14 September 2026 · from the Queensland EP Act public register
EPML02090614 · BOWEN PCI PTY LTD
Coal environmental authority EPML02090614 (BOWEN PCI PTY LTD), Granted. 138 conditions indexed. Holds PRC plan P-PRCP-100886122.
- Status
- Granted
- Holders
- BOWEN PCI PTY LTD
- Tenures
- ML80194
- PRC plan
- P-PRCP-100886122 · effective 2025-06-12
- How it was read
- Numbered conditions
- Register
- Register record · Instrument PDF
Conditions
138 numbered conditions read from the current instrument. Page numbers link into the register PDF.
- A1
Scope of approval This environmental authority authorises environmental harm referred to in the conditions. Where there is no condition or this environmental authority is silent on a matter, the lack of a condition or silence does not authorise environmental harm.
- A2
This environmental authority authorises the extraction of no more than 1.8 million tonnes per annum of run-of-mine (ROM) coal.
- A3
Maintenance and measures The environmental authority holder must: a) install all measures, plant and equipment necessary to ensure compliance with the conditions of this environmental authority; b) maintain such measures, plant and equipment in a proper and efficient condition; c) operate such measures, plant and equipment in a proper and efficient manner; and d) ensure all instruments and devices used for the measurement or monitoring of any parameter under any condition of this environmental authority are calibrated and certified by an appropriately qualified person (AQP).
- A4
Monitoring Record, compile and keep for a minimum of five (5) years all monitoring results required by this environmental authority and make available for inspection all or any of these records upon request by the administering authority. OFFICIAL Permit Environmental Authority EPML02090614
- A5
Monitoring and determinations required under any condition of this environmental authority must be conducted by an AQP.
- A6
Monitoring results for rehabilitation must be kept until final surrender is accepted.
- A7
Management Plan, Monitoring programs and Reports Management plans, monitoring programs and reports required under any condition of this environmental authority must be developed by an AQP.
- A8
Upon request from the administering authority, copies of monitoring results, records, registers, monitoring programs, management plans and reports required by the conditions of this environmental authority must be made available and provided to the administering authority within: (a) ten (10) business days; or (b) an alternative timeframe agreed between the administering authority and the environmental authority holder.
- A9
Risk Management System The environmental authority holder must develop and implement a Risk Management System for all stages of mining activities which mirrors the content requirement of the Standard for Risk Management (ISO31000), or the latest edition of an Australian standard for risk management, to the extent relevant to environmental management.
- A10
Notification of emergencies, incidents and exceedances The environmental authority holder must notify the administering authority by written notification within twenty-four (24) hours, after becoming aware of any emergency, incident or exceedance that results in the release of contaminants not in accordance the conditions of this environmental authority.
- A11
Within ten (10) business days following the initial notification of an emergency, incident or exceedance, or receipt of monitoring results, further advice must be provided to the administering authority, including the following: a) results and interpretation of any samples taken and analysed; b) outcomes of actions taken at the time to prevent or minimise unlawful environmental harm; and c) proposed actions to prevent a recurrence of the emergency, incident or exceedance.
- A12
Complaints The environmental authority holder must record all environmental complaints received about the mining activities including: a) name, address and contact number of the complainant; b) time and date of complaint; c) reasons for the complaint; d) investigations undertaken; e) conclusions formed; f) actions taken to resolve the complaint; g) any abatement measures implemented; and h) person responsible for resolving the complaint. OFFICIAL Permit Environmental Authority EPML02090614
- A13
The environmental authority holder must, when requested by the administering authority, undertake relevant specified monitoring to investigate any complaint of environmental nuisance or environmental harm. The results of the investigation (including an analysis and interpretation of the monitoring results) and abatement measures, where implemented, must be provided to the administering authority within ten (10) business days of completion of the investigation, or no later than ten (10) business days after the end of the timeframe nominated by the administering authority to undertake the investigation. OFFICIAL Permit Environmental Authority EPML02090614 Schedule B: Air Condition Condition number
- B1
The release of dust or particulate matter or both resulting from the authorised mining activities must not cause an environmental nuisance at any sensitive place or commercial place.
- B2
Dust and particulate matter monitoring Dust and particulate matter emissions generated by the mining activities must not exceed the following levels when measured at any sensitive place or commercial place: a) Dust deposition of 120 milligrams per square metre per day, averaged over one (1) month, when monitored in accordance with the most recent version of Australian Standard AS3580.10.1 Methods for sampling and analysis of ambient air--Determination of particulate matter--Deposited matter - Gravimetric method. b) A concentration of particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter of less than ten (10) micrometres (PM10) suspended in the atmosphere of fifty (50) micrograms per cubic metre over a 24-hour averaging time when monitored in accordance with the most recent version of either: i) Australian Standard AS3580.9.6 Methods for sampling and analysis of ambient air-- Determination of suspended particulate matter--PM10 high volume sampler with size- selective inlet - Gravimetric method; ii) Australian Standard AS3580.9.9 Methods for sampling and analysis of ambient air-- Determination of suspended particulate matter--PM10 low volume sampler-- Gravimetric method; or iii)Any alternative method of sampling PM10, approved by the administering authority. c) A concentration of particulate matter suspended in the atmosphere of 90 micrograms per cubic metre over a one (1) year averaging time, when monitored in accordance with the most recent version of AS/NZS3580.9.3 Methods for sampling and analysis of ambient air-- Determination of suspended particulate matter--Total suspended particulate matter (TSP)--High volume sampler gravimetric method.
- B3
The environmental authority holder must monitor air quality which must include, but not be limited to: a) continuous monitoring in accordance with condition B2(b); b) meteorological monitoring including, but not limited to, temperature, wind speed and direction, as a single location representative of the Bluff Coal Mine; c) monitoring locations must comply with Australian Standard AS/NZS 3580.1.1 Methods for siting and analysis of ambient air. Part 1.1: Guide to siting air monitoring equipment; and, d) investigation of all exceedances to determine the cause of emissions from Bluff Coal Mine. Note: The administering authority will take into consideration any extenuating circumstances prior to determining an appropriate enforcement response in the event condition B2 is contravened due to unforeseen events including, but not limited to, mischief or wilful damage, power failure or scheduled maintenance.
- B4
When requested by the administering authority, dust and particulate monitoring must be undertaken in accordance with Condition B2(a) and B2(c) at a location(s) and within a timeframe nominated by the administering authority, and the results must be submitted within ten (10) business days to the administering authority following completion of monitoring. OFFICIAL Permit Environmental Authority EPML02090614
- B5
If the monitoring, carried out in accordance with conditions B3 and B4, indicates an exceedance of the relevant limits in condition B2, then the environmental authority holder must investigate whether the exceedance is due to emissions from the activity. If the mining activity is found to be the cause of the exceedance then the environmental authority holder must immediately implement dust abatement measures so that emissions of dust from the activity do not result in further environmental nuisance.
- B6
Air Emissions Management Plan An Air Emissions Management Plan must be developed and implemented for all stages of the authorised mining activities.
- B7
The Air Emissions Management Plan required by condition B6 must include: a) a preventative management system for PM10 and TSP; and b) monitoring program for PM10 and TSP between the mine and the township of Bluff.
- B8
An annual report on the Air Emissions Management Plan required by condition B6 must be submitted to the administering authority with each annual return. The report must include: a) a review of the suitability of the dust management system; b) recommendations or improvements to the Air Emissions Management Plan, including whether additional monitoring locations are required; and c) the results of the monitoring program and the actions taken to reduce potential impacts on sensitive receptors and commercial places from the authorised mining activities, when applicable.
- B9
Dust management - Coal transport Take reasonable and practicable measures necessary to prevent release of windblown dust from vehicles used for transporting coal extracted from the site. Reasonable and practicable measures may include but are not limited to: a) wetting down the load prior to transport; b) having the entire load covered with a tarpaulin or similar material for the duration of transport; and c) clearing of spillages from side rails, tail gates and draw bars of vehicles prior to and after delivery.
- B10
Dust control - trafficable areas Trafficable areas (including entry and exit points from Capricorn Highway) must be maintained using reasonable and practicable measures necessary to minimise the release of windblown or traffic generated dust to the atmosphere. Reasonable and practicable measures may include but are not limited to: a) keeping surfaces clean; b) sealing with bitumen or other suitable material; c) using water sprays; d) installing an effective truck body and wheel wash facility; and e) using dust suppressants and wind breaks.
- B11
Odour nuisance The release of noxious or offensive odour(s) or any other noxious or offensive airborne contaminant(s) resulting from the mining activity must not cause an environmental nuisance at any sensitive or commercial place. OFFICIAL Permit Environmental Authority EPML02090614
- B12
When requested by the administering authority, odour monitoring must be undertaken within a timeframe nominated by the administering authority to investigate any complaint of environmental nuisance at any sensitive or commercial place, and the results must be notified within ten (10) business days to the administering authority following completion of monitoring.
- B13
If the administering authority determines the odour released to constitute an environmental nuisance, then the environmental authority holder must immediately implement odour abatement measures so that emissions of odour from the activity do not result in further environmental nuisance. OFFICIAL Permit Environmental Authority EPML02090614 Schedule C: Noise Condition Condition number
- C1
Noise limits The environmental authority holder must ensure that noise generated by the mining activities does not cause the criteria in Table C1 - Noise limits to be exceeded at a sensitive or commercial place. Table C1 - Noise limits Sensitive Place Noise level Monday to Saturday Sundays and Public Holidays dB(A) measured as: 7am to 6pm 6pm to 10pm to 9am to 6pm 6pm to 10pm to 50 10pm 7am 45 10pm 9am LAeq, adj 15 mins 40 45 40 35 45
- C2
Monitoring and reporting The environmental authority holder must conduct noise monitoring to determine compliance with Table C1: Noise limits, which must include, but not be limited to: a) continuous noise monitoring, in accordance with relevant Australian Standards and at the locations identified in the Noise Management Plan required by condition C5; b) quarterly attended monitoring, at the sensitive place in accordance with the most current version of the administering authority's Noise Monitoring Manual; c) meteorological monitoring including, but not limited to, temperature, wind speed and direction; d) the monitoring locations must comply with the relevant Australian Standards and the most current version of the administering authority's Noise Monitoring Manual; and, e) investigation of all measured exceedances to determine the cause of noise emissions from Bluff Coal Mine. Note: The administering authority will take into consideration any extenuating circumstances prior to determining an appropriate enforcement response in the event condition C2 is contravened due to unforeseen events including, but not limited to, mischief or wilful damage, power failure or scheduled maintenance.
- C3
Noise monitoring and recording required by condition C2 must include the following descriptors, characteristics and matters: a) LAN,T (where N equals the statistical levels of 1, 10 and 90 and T = 15 mins); b) background noise LA90; c) the level and frequency of occurrence of impulsive or tonal noise and any adjustment and penalties to statistical levels; d) atmospheric conditions including temperature, relative humidity and wind speed and directions; e) location, date and time of monitoring; and f) if the complaint concerns low frequency noise, Max LpLIN,T and one third octave band measurements in dB(LIN) for centre frequencies in the 10 - 200 Hz range. OFFICIAL Permit Environmental Authority EPML02090614
- C4
If an exceedance in accordance with condition C1 and Table C1: Noise Limits is identified and attributable to mine noise, the environmental authority holder must notify the administering authority within ten (10) business days of receiving the result.
- C5
Noise Management Plan A Noise Management Plan must be developed and implemented for all stages of the mining activity. The Noise Management Plan must include: a) a description of noise monitoring locations, including GPS coordinates and monitoring frequency; b) a description of noise monitoring procedures to identify potential noise exceedances; c) noise trigger values to prevent exceedances at sensitive receptors; d) management and mitigation strategies to reduce noise levels at sensitive receptors; e) Trigger Action Response Plan; f) a description of the complaint management and investigation process; and, g) an annual review of the acquired monitoring data and the suitability of the noise management plan.
- C6
Vibration and airblast overpressure nuisance The environmental authority holder must ensure that blasting does not cause the limits for peak particle velocity and air blast overpressure in Table C2 - Blasting noise limits to be exceeded at a sensitive or commercial place. Table C2 - Blasting limits Sensitive or commercial place limits Blasting noise limits 7am to 6pm 6pm to 7am No blasting Airblast overpressure 115 dB (Linear) Peak for 9 out of 10 consecutive blasts initiated and not greater No blasting Ground vibration peak than 120 dB (Linear) Peak at any time particle velocity 5mm/second peak particle velocity for 9 out of 10 consecutive blasts and not greater than 10 mm/second peak particle velocity at any time
- C7
If an exceedance in accordance with Condition C7 and Table C2: Blasting limits is identified, investigated and determined to be representative of mining noise the environmental authority holder must notify the administering authority within ten (10) business days of receiving the results. OFFICIAL Permit Environmental Authority EPML02090614 Schedule D: Water Condition Condition number
- D1
Contaminants must not be released to any waters as a result of the authorised mining activities, except as permitted under the conditions of this environmental authority.
- D2
The release of mine affected water to any waters is not permitted.
- D3
The release of mine affected water to internal water management infrastructure installed and operated in accordance with a Water Management Plan that complies with condition D9 is permitted. OFFICIAL Permit Environmental Authority EPML02090614 Table D1 - REMP quality characteristics Quality Characteristic Monitoring Frequency Aluminium Arsenic Cadmium Chromium Copper Iron Lead Mercury Nickel Zinc Boron Cobalt Manganese Molybdenum During monitoring for REMP Selenium Silver Uranium Vanadium Ammonia Nitrate Petroleum hydrocarbons (C6-C9) Petroleum hydrocarbons (C10-C36) Fluoride (total)
- D3
Receiving Environment Monitoring Program (REMP) The environmental authority holder must develop and implement a REMP to monitor, identify and describe any adverse impacts to surface water environmental values, quality and flows due to the authorised mining activity. This must include monitoring the effects of the mine on the receiving environment periodically (under natural flow conditions) and while mine affected water is being discharged from the site. For the purposes of the REMP, the receiving environment is the waters of the Columba, Duckworth and Rufus Creeks and connected or surrounding waterways within 10km downstream of the release, including Taunton National Park. The REMP must encompass any sensitive receiving waters or environmental values downstream of the authorised mining activity that will potentially be directly or indirectly affected by an authorised release of mine affected water.
- D4
The REMP must: a) assess the condition or state of receiving waters, including upstream conditions, spatially within the REMP area, considering background water quality characteristics based on accurate and reliable monitoring data that takes into consideration temporal variation (e.g., seasonality); b) be designed to facilitate assessment against water quality objectives for the relevant environmental values that need to be protected; c) include monitoring from background reference sites (e.g., upstream or background) and downstream sites from the release (as a minimum, the locations specified in Table D2 - Receiving water upstream background sites and downstream monitoring points); d) specify the frequency and timing of sampling required in order to reliably assess ambient conditions and to provide sufficient data to derive site specific background reference values in accordance with the Queensland Water Quality Guidelines 2006. This must include monitoring during periods of natural flow irrespective of mine or other discharges; e) include monitoring and assessment of dissolved oxygen saturation, temperature and all water quality parameters listed in Table D1 - REMP quality characteristics; f) include, where appropriate, monitoring of metals and metalloids in sediments (in accordance with ANZG 2018; Batley and/or most recent version of AS5667.1: Guidance on Sampling Bottom Sediments); g) include, where appropriate, monitoring of macroinvertebrates in accordance with the AusRivas method; h) apply procedures and/or guidelines from ANZG 2018 and other relevant guideline documents; i) describe sampling and analysis methods and quality assurance and control; and j) incorporate stream flow and hydrological information in the interpretations of water quality.
- D5
A report outlining the findings of the REMP, including all monitoring results and interpretations in accordance with conditions D3 and D4 must be prepared annually.
- D6
Water reuse Mine affected water may be piped or trucked or transferred by some other means that does not contravene the conditions of this environmental authority. OFFICIAL Permit Environmental Authority EPML02090614
- D7
Temporary interference with waterways Destroying native vegetation, excavating, or placing fill in a watercourse, lake or spring necessary for and associated with mining operations must be undertaken in accordance with Department of Natural Resources, Mines and Energy (or its successor) Guideline - Activities in a Watercourse, Lake or Spring associated with Mining Activities.
- D8
Water Management Plan A Water Management Plan must be developed and implemented for all stages of the mining activities.
- D9
The Water Management Plan must: a) provide for effective water management of actual and potential environmental impacts resulting from the mining activity; and b) include: i. a study of the source of contaminants; and ii. a water balance model for the site; and iii. a water management system for the site; and iv. an onsite water quality sampling program, including stratification sampling of pits used for water storages; and v. measures to prevent, manage and reduce saline mine drainage ; and vi. measures to maintain water management structures; and vii. contingency procedures for incidents and emergencies; and viii. a program for monitoring and review of the effectiveness of the water management plan and ix. how erosion and sediment control measures detailed in the plan adequately minimise the release of sediment to receiving waters and must include at least the following: 1) an assessment of the size and characteristics of all catchment areas; and 2) an assessment of relevant properties of soils and waste materials; and 3) identification of receiving waters environmental values, water quality objectives and management intent; and 4) specification of minimum design criteria for erosion and sediment control structures to achieve the management intent of receiving waters; and 5) locations and descriptions of all erosion and sediment control measures; and 6) an audit schedule to ensure erosion and sediment control measures are maintained.
- D10
The Water Management Plan must be reviewed by 1 September each calendar year. The review must be documented and: a) include a statement that the Water Management Plan has been reviewed by an AQP; and b) assess the plan against the requirements under condition D9; and c) include recommended actions to ensure actual and potential environmental impacts are effectively managed; and d) provide details and timelines of the actions to be taken; and e) identify any amendments to be made to the Water Management Plan.
- D11
A copy of the Water Management Plan must be kept up to date following each annual review. OFFICIAL Permit Environmental Authority EPML02090614 Schedule E: Groundwater Condition Condition number
- E1
Groundwater Contaminants from the activity must not be released to groundwater.
- E2
Groundwater monitoring Groundwater quality and standing water level must be monitored at the locations and frequencies defined in Table E1 - Groundwater monitoring locations and frequency and Figure 3- Groundwater Bore Monitoring Locations of this environmental authority for quality characteristics identified in Table E2 - Groundwater quality triggers and limits. Table E1 - Groundwater monitoring locations and frequency Monitoring Location Surface RL Screened Monitoring Aquifer Point (mAHD)11 Interval Frequency Easting Northing (GDA94 (mbgl) Aries Seam
- MB05
(GDA94 - - Zone 54) 188.5 SWL - monthly Aries Seam
- MB08
Zone 54) 86-92 for the first 12
- MB12
713497 36-39 months of Overburden
- MB14
712675 7390096 180.0 51-54 VWP2* quarterly 712678 7390095 180.2 thereafter Quality - quarterly 712968 7387843 197.1 713892 7388257 177.7 270.5-273.5 Aries Seam 713192 7389981 172.4 175.4-178.4 Aries Seam 713186 7388600 154.2 81 SWL -quarterly Aries Seam 148.0 97 Interburden/Fault 147.3 161.5 151.0 202 Orion Seam Pisces Sean OFFICIAL Permit Environmental Authority EPML02090614 Table E2 - Groundwater quality trigger and contaminant limits Contaminant Limit type Trigger Interim Contaminant Trigger Value Parameter1 Units Value2 (Interpretation)8 (Compliance)
- MB05
MB08 MB09 MB12 MB13 MB14 Electrical -S/cm 356004 354406 354406 354406 354406 354406 Three (3) Conductivity consecutive Total dissolved mg/L 231804 231006 231006 231006 231006 231006 exceedances of the solids trigger value pH pH Unit 7.068 - 8.037 7.018 - 8.037 7.018 - 8.037 7.018 - 8.037 7.018 - 8.037 7.018 - 8.039 Major anions mg/L For interpretation purposes only - no specific limit [Ca, K, Mg, Na] Major cations [Cl-, mg/L For interpretation purposes only - no specific limit OH-, CO32-, HCO3-] Sulphate as SO4 mg/L 12504 11226 11226 11226 11226 11226 Aluminium mg/L 0.0557 0.0557 0.0557 0.0557 0.0557 0.0557 Antimony mg/L 0.0097 0.0097 0.0097 0.0097 0.0097 0.0097 Arsenic mg/L 0.0137 0.0137 0.0137 0.0137 0.0137 0.0137 Iron mg/L 2.55 0.0557 0.0557 0.0557 0.0557 0.0557 Mercury mg/L 0.00067 0.00067 0.00067 0.00067 0.00067 0.00067 Molybdenum mg/L 0.0347 0.0347 0.0347 0.0347 0.0347 0.0347 Selenium mg/L 0.053 0.053 0.053 0.053 0.053 0.053 Silver mg/L 0.0053 0.0053 0.0053 0.0053 0.0053 0.0053 TPH C6-C9 -g/L 203 203 203 203 203 203 Fraction TPH C10-C36 (Sum of Total) -g/L 2404 4286 4286 4286 4286 4286 (Lab Reported) 1 Metals/metalloids must be measured in dissolved fractions 2 Limits apply to dissolved fractions 3 Typical limit of reporting. Laboratory analytical method must be suitable to achieve LOR. 4 bore specific 80th percentile triggers as per `Bluff Coal Mine Groundwater Trigger development (11 May 2023)' 5 bore specific 95th percentile triggers as per `Bluff Coal Mine Groundwater Trigger development (11 May 2023)' 6 site-wide 80th percentile triggers as per `Bluff Coal Mine Groundwater Trigger development (11 May 2023)' 7 for aquatic ecosystem protection, based on Australian and New Zealand Guidelines for Fresh and Marine Water Quality (ANZECC & ARMCANZ, 2000) 8 Interpretation bore until 1 November 2025. OFFICIAL
- E3
By 1 October 2025, a baseline dataset for monitoring bores MB08, MB09, MB12, MB13, MB14 must be established in accordance with the methodology and matters stated in the guideline "Using monitoring data to assess groundwater quality and potential environmental impacts", February 2021 as amended from time to time.
- E4
By 1 November 2025, a report must be provided to the administering authority that proposes and justifies limits for bores referenced in conditions E3 (inclusive). Limits must be determined: a) for the relevant parameters detailed in Table E2 - Groundwater quality trigger and contamination limits b) in accordance the guideline "Using monitoring data to assess groundwater quality and potential environmental impacts", February 2021 as amended from time to time
- E5
Results of monitoring of groundwater from compliance bores identified in Table E1 - Groundwater monitoring locations and frequency, must not exceed any of the limits defined in Table E2 - Groundwater quality triggers and limits on three (3) consecutive occasions.
- E6
If any limit specified in Table E2 - Groundwater quality triggers and limits are exceeded at the compliance bores specified in Table - E1 Groundwater quality monitoring locations and frequency on three (3) consecutive occasions, the holder of the environmental authority must notify the administering authority via WaTERS within twenty-four (24) hours of receiving the results. Further advice must be provided in accordance with condition A11.
- E7
Groundwater standing water level monitoring Groundwater levels when measured at the monitoring locations specified in Table E1 - Groundwater monitoring locations and frequency must not exceed the groundwater level trigger change thresholds specified in Table E3 - Groundwater standing water level trigger threshold. Table E3 - Groundwater standing water level trigger threshold Monitoring Bore Reference water level Level Trigger Threshold Level Trigger Threshold (mAHD) (mAHD) (m below reference point) 1
- MB08
148.376 138.3 96.7 169.1 163.8
- MB09
154.721 113.5 189.7 56.0 151.9
- MB14
147.1 VWP (Aries Seam) 152.5 1 The reference point is top of casing OFFICIAL Permit Environmental Authority EPML02090614
- E8
If the level trigger thresholds specified in Table - E3 Groundwater standing water level trigger threshold are exceeded at the compliance bores specified in Table - E1 Groundwater quality monitoring locations, frequency, the holder of the environmental authority must notify the administering authority via WaTERS within fourteen (14) days of receiving the results.
- E9
Monitoring and sampling must be carried out in accordance with written procedures that address and comply with the requirements of the latest version of the Queensland Government's 'Monitoring and Sampling Manual - Environmental Protection (Water) Policy 2009' unless otherwise approved by the administering authority.
- E10
The following information must be recorded in relation to all groundwater monitoring: a) the date on which the sample was taken; b) the time at which the sample was taken; c) the monitoring bore at which the sample was taken; and d) the results of all monitoring. Note: the information required by Condition E10 is only required for groundwater monitoring that has occurred since November 2021, when the environmental authority holder became Bowen PCI Pty Ltd.
- E11
Groundwater Monitoring and Management Program By 30 June 2024, a Groundwater Monitoring and Management Program (GMMP) must be developed, implemented and maintained.
- E12
The GMMP required by Condition E11 must: a) Describe the existing groundwater conceptual and numerical models; b) identify all potential sources of contamination to groundwater from the activities authorised under this environmental authority; c) identify all environmental values that may be impacted; d) detail groundwater levels in all identified hydrogeological units present across and adjacent to the site to confirm existing groundwater flow paths;; e) ensure potential groundwater impacts due to the activities authorised under this environmental authority are identified, monitored and mitigated; f) ensure adequate groundwater monitoring and data analysis is undertaken to achieve the following objectives: i. detect impacts to groundwater quality due to the activities authorised under this environmental authority; ii. detect changes to groundwater level due to the activities authorised under this environmental authority; iii. determine compliance with condition E5 iv. determine trends in groundwater quality; v. assess the determine any interaction or impact from groundwater on surface water (groundwater monitoring locations should align with receiving environment surface water quality monitoring locations, if appropriate); and g) document groundwater management and monitoring methodologies undertaken for the duration of all the activities authorised under this environmental authority; h) provide an appropriate quality assurance and quality control program; and i) include a review process to identify improvements to the program that includes addressing any comments provided by the administering authority. OFFICIAL Permit Environmental Authority EPML02090614
- E13
The GMMP must be reviewed on an annual basis to determine if it continues to meet the requirements stated in condition E12.
- E14
Groundwater Model The environmental authority holder must submit an update to the current groundwater model, either every five (5) years commencing 31 December 2028, or if recommended by an AQP in accordance with Condition E18, whichever is earliest.
- E15
The groundwater model review in condition E14 must: a) include all hydrogeological units potentially impacted by the activities authorised under this environmental authority; b) be undertaken in accordance with the most recent version of the `Australian Groundwater Modelling Guidelines' (2012); c) be validated and recalibrated with all recent monitoring data; and d) be documented and recorded.
- E16
If the outcomes of the updated groundwater model required by condition E14 differ from the predictions and associated impacts from the current groundwater model, the environmental authority holder must also submit a report to the administering authority within 28 days of completion of the review under condition E14 that details the impacts to environmental values that will, or are likely to, occur as a result of the updates to the groundwater model.
- E17
Annual Groundwater Monitoring Report An Annual Groundwater Monitoring Report (AGMR) must be completed by 30 September each year, for the previous calendar year's monitoring results.
- E18
The AGMR required by condition E17 must include: a) a review of all the groundwater quality and SWL data of all groundwater bores listed within Table
- E1
- Groundwater quality monitoring locations and frequency and Table E3 - Groundwater standing water level trigger threshold; b) an assessment of groundwater quality and SWL trends for all data from all groundwater bores listed in Table E1 - Groundwater quality monitoring locations and frequency and Table E3 - Groundwater standing water level trigger threshold; c) an assessment of any impacts on groundwater level due to the mining activities; and d) comparison with receiving environment surface water quality monitoring results to determine any interaction or impact from groundwater on surface water. e) an assessment on the appropriateness of the current groundwater flow model; and f) an assessment on the appropriateness of the groundwater monitoring network.
- E19
Bore construction, maintenance and decommissioning the construction, maintenance, operation and decommissioning of each groundwater monitoring bore must be undertaken by an appropriately qualified person in a manner that: a) prevents contaminants entering the groundwater; and b) ensures representative groundwater samples from the target hydrogeological unit; and c) maintains the hydrogeological environment within the hydrogeological unit. Note: the requirements of Condition E19 is only required for construction, maintenance, operation and decommissioning of groundwater monitoring bores that have occurred since November 2021, when the environmental authority holder became Bowen PCI Pty Ltd. OFFICIAL Permit Environmental Authority EPML02090614
- E20
A bore report must be kept for each monitoring bore which includes: a) a unique identification reference number and geographic coordinate location; b) construction information including but not limited to the depth of bore, depth and length of casing, depth and length of screening and bore sealing details; c) stratigraphy and target hydrogeological unit of the bore; and d) depth at which groundwater was intercepted and the final standing water level (SWL) after bore development. Note: the requirements of Condition 20 is only required for the groundwater monitoring bores that were constructed since November 2021, when the environmental authority holder became Bowen PCI Pty Ltd. OFFICIAL Permit Environmental Authority EPML02090614 Schedule F: Waste management Condition Condition number
- F1
Unless otherwise permitted by the conditions of this environmental authority or with prior approval from the administering authority and in accordance with a relevant standard operating procedure, waste must not be burnt.
- F2
All regulated waste must be removed and transported from site by a person(s) who has the authority to transport such wastes to a facility that is lawfully able to accept the waste under the Environmental Protection Act 1994.
- F3
The environmental authority holder may burn vegetation cleared in the course of carrying out extraction activities provided the activity does not cause environmental harm at any sensitive place or commercial place.
- F4
Waste Rock and Spoil Disposal Plan A Waste Rock and Spoil Disposal Plan must be developed and implemented for all stages of the authorised mining activities.
- F5
A Waste Rock and Spoil Disposal Plan must include: a) effective characterisation of the waste rock and spoil to predict under the proposed placement and disposal strategy the quality of runoff and seepage generated concerning potentially environmentally significant effects including salinity, acidity, alkalinity and dissolved metals, metalloids and non-metallic inorganic substances; b) a program of progressive sampling and characterisation to identify dispersive and non- dispersive spoil and the salinity, acid and alkali producing potential and metal concentrations of waste rock; c) a materials balance and disposal plan demonstrating how potentially acid forming and acid forming waste rock will be selectively placed and/or encapsulated to minimise the potential generation of acid mine drainage; d) where relevant, a sampling program to verify encapsulation and/or placement of potentially acid-forming and acid-forming waste rock; e) how often the performance of the plan will be assessed; f) the indicators or other criteria on which the performance of the plan will be assessed; g) a rehabilitation strategy; and h) a periodic review of environmental performance against the plan and continual improvement
- F6
The only contaminant permitted to be released to land is treated sewage effluent in compliance with the release limits stated in Table F11 - Contaminant release limits to land. OFFICIAL Permit Environmental Authority EPML02090614 Table F1 - Contaminant release limits to land Contaminant Unit Release limit Limit type Frequency Nitrogen mg/L 30 Maximum Monthly Phosphorus Monthly E-coli mg/L 15 Maximum Monthly pH Monthly Organisms/100ml 1000 Maximum pH units 6.0 - 9.0 Range
- F7
Treated sewage effluent may only be released to land in accordance with the conditions of this environmental authority for the purpose of dust suppression and/or firefighting.
- F8
The application of treated effluent to land must be carried out in a manner such that: a) vegetation is not damaged; b) there is no surface ponding of effluent; and c) there is no run-off of effluent.
- F9
If areas irrigated with effluent are accessible to employees or the general public, prominent signage must be provided advising that effluent is present and care must be taken to avoid consuming or otherwise coming into unprotected contact with the effluent.
- F10
All sewage effluent released to land must be monitored at the frequency and for the parameters specified in Table F1 - Contaminant release limits to land.
- F11
The daily volume of effluent release to land must be measured and records kept of the volumes of effluent released.
- F12
When circumstances prevent the irrigation or beneficial reuse of treated sewage effluent such as during or following rain events, waters must be directed to a wet weather storage or alternative measures must be taken to store/lawfully dispose of effluent. OFFICIAL Permit Environmental Authority EPML02090614 Schedule G: Land and Rehabilitation Condition Condition number
- G1
Preventing contaminant release to land Contaminants must not be released to land which constitutes nuisance, material or serious environmental harm.
- G2
Land disturbed by mining as depicted in Attachment 1 - Final disturbance footprint and Table
- G1
Mining Domains must be rehabilitated to a safe, stable and non-polluting landform, with a self- sustaining vegetation cover in accordance with Attachment 2 - Rehabilitation Requirements of this environmental authority.
- G3
Rehabilitation must commence progressively in accordance with the Rehabilitation Management Plan required by condition G5.
- G4
Rehabilitation Management Plan A Rehabilitation Management Plan must be developed and implemented for all stages of the authorised mining activities.
- G5
A Rehabilitation Management plan must include: a) a map of existing and proposed rehabilitation including a classification of stage (i.e. time since establishment); b) a strategy for progressive rehabilitation, including a progressive rehabilitation schedule; c) details of the design objectives for rehabilitation of each domain to achieve rehabilitation requirements detailed in Attachment 2 - Rehabilitation Requirements; d) specification of spoil characteristics, soil analysis and soil separation for use on rehabilitation; e) identification of any topsoil deficit and describe how any deficit will be managed for successful rehabilitation; f) details of rehabilitation methods to be applied to specific domains; g) details of landform design including conceptual end of mine design; h) details of how landform design will be consistent with the surrounding topography; i) identification of planned native vegetation rehabilitation areas and corridors; j) a description of a minimum of three (3) reference sites for use in rehabilitation monitoring; k) a description of rehabilitation indicators and how these will be monitored; l) a description of management actions to address unsuccessful rehabilitation or redesign; and m) a post closure management and monitoring program, including: n) operation and maintenance of: (i) wastewater collection and reticulation systems; (ii) wastewater treatment systems; (iii) the groundwater monitoring network; (iv)final cover systems; and (v) vegetation cover. (vi)monitoring of: OFFICIAL Permit Environmental Authority EPML02090614 (A) surface water quality; (B) groundwater quality; (C) seepage rates; (D) erosion rates; (E) the integrity and effectiveness of cover systems; and (F) the health and resilience of native vegetation cover.
- G6
Contaminated Land Before applying for surrender of a mining lease, the holder must (if applicable) provide to the administering authority a site investigation report under the Act, in relation to any part of the mining lease which has been used for notifiable activities or which the holder is aware is likely to be contaminated land, and also carry out any further work that is required as a result of that report to ensure that the land is suitable for its final land use.
- G7
Before applying for progressive rehabilitation certification for an area, the holder must (if applicable) provide to the administering authority a site investigation report under the Act, in relation to any part of the area the subject of the application which has been used for notifiable activities or which the holder is aware is likely to be contaminated land, and also carry out any further work that is required as a result of that report to ensure that the land is suitable for its final land use under condition G3.
- G8
Minimise the potential for contamination of land by hazardous contaminants.
- G9
Infrastructure All infrastructure, constructed by or for the environmental authority holder during the approved mining activities, including water storage structures, must be removed from the site prior to surrender, except where agreed in writing by the post mining land owner. This exception is not applicable where the land owner is also the environmental authority holder.
- G10
Chemicals and flammable or combustible liquids All explosives, hazardous chemicals, corrosive substances, toxic substances, gases and dangerous goods must be stored and handled in accordance with the latest edition of AS1940--The storage and handling of flammable and combustible liquids, AS3833-The storage and handling of mixed classes of dangerous goods, in packages and intermediate bulk containers and AS4452-The storage and handling of toxic substances. Where no relevant Australian standard exists, store such materials within an effective on-site containment system. OFFICIAL Permit Environmental Authority EPML02090614
- G11
Biodiversity offsets - Queensland Biodiversity Offset Policy Conditions G12 and G13 apply only to the Bluff Coal Mine Stage One Offsets.
- G12
The environmental authority holder must deliver an offset for impacts on applicable state significant biodiversity values, in accordance with Queensland Biodiversity Offset Policy. The biodiversity offset must be consistent with the requirements for an offset as identified in the Biodiversity Offset Strategy (as per condition G13) and must be provided: a)prior to impacting on state significant biodiversity values; or b)where a land based offset is to be provided, within twelve (12) months of the later of either of the following (i) the date of issue of this environmental authority; or (ii) the relevant stage identified in the Biodiversity Offset Strategy submitted under condition G13; or c) where an offset payment is to be provided, within four (4) months of the later of either of the following (i) the date of issue of this environmental authority; or (ii) the relevant stage identified in the Biodiversity Offset Strategy submitted under conditions G13.
- G13
A Biodiversity Offset Strategy must be developed and submitted to the administering authority within either thirty (30) days, or a lesser period agreed to by the administering authority, prior to impacting on the applicable state significant biodiversity values outlined in Table G2 - Significant residual impacts to State Significant Biodiversity Values (SSBV) - Stage One, Figure 1a - Impact on SSBV (flora) - Bluff Coal Mine Stage One and Figure 1b - Impact on SSBV (fauna) - Bluff Coal Mine Stage One.
- G14
Biodiversity offsets - Queensland Environmental Offsets Policy Conditions F16 to F21 apply only to the Bluff Coal Mine Stage Two Offsets.
- G15
Significant residual impacts to prescribed environmental matters, are only authorised to occur if: a) for the prescribed environmental matters specified in Table G3 - Significant residual impacts to prescribed environmental matters, the impacts occur at the location(s) specified for that prescribed environmental matter in Figure 2a - Impact on MSES - Bluff Coal Mine Stage Two. b) for the prescribed environmental matter specified in Table G3 - Significant residual impacts to prescribed environmental matters, the impacts do not exceed the maximum extent of impact specified for that prescribed environmental matter.
- G16
Records demonstrating that each impact to a prescribed environmental matter not listed in Table G3 - Significant residual impacts to prescribed environmental matters did not, or is not likely to, result in a significant residual impact to that matter must be: a) completed by an appropriately qualified person; and b) kept for the life of the environmental authority. OFFICIAL Permit Environmental Authority EPML02090614
- G17
An environmental offset made in accordance with the Environmental Offsets Act 2014 and Queensland Environmental Offsets Policy, as amended from time to time, must be undertaken for the maximum extent of impact to each prescribed environmental matter authorised in Table G3 - Significant residual impacts to prescribed environmental matters, unless a lesser extent of the impact has been approved in accordance with condition G19.
- G18
Prior to the commencement of any impacts to a prescribed environmental matter for which an environmental offset is required by condition G17, a report that contains an analysis of the estimated maximum extent of impact to each prescribed environmental matter must be provided to the administering authority.
- G19
The report required by condition G18 must be approved by the administering authority before the notice of election, if applicable, is given to the administering authority. OFFICIAL Permit Environmental Authority EPML02090614 Table G1 - Mining Domains Domain Area (Ha) Location Mine Industrial Area and Infrastructure 102.6 Attachment 1 - Final disturbance 351.5 Areas footprint Overburden Dumps (out-of-pit [east and 12.4 west] overburden dumps and in-pit overburden dump) Water Management Infrastructure Residual void 48.8 Total disturbance extent (including the 515.3 Residual Void)
- G20
The notice of election for the environmental offset required by condition G19, if applicable, must be provided to the administering authority no less than three (3) months before the proposed commencement of the significant residual impacts for which the environmental offset is required, unless a lesser timeframe is agreed to by the administering authority.
- G21
Connectivity offset - Stage 2 An on-ground baseline habitat assessment of the Stage 2 Biodiversity connectivity offset area (refer Figure 4: Stage 2 Biodiversity Connectivity Offset Area, covering 79.6 ha) is to be undertaken, with the associated outcomes provided to the administering authority by 30 June 2025. The survey is to be conducted in accordance with The Guide to Determining Terrestrial Habitat Quality Version 1.2 (DEHP 2017). Table G2 - Significant residual impacts to State Significant Biodiversity Values (SSBV) - Stage One SSBV Stage One extent of Location of Impact impact (ha) mapped RE Regulated Vegetation Regional ecosystems within the defined distance from 11.9 Western dump, pit, the defining banks of a relevant watercourse on the western track, and ROM vegetation management watercourse map: Stream Refer to Figure 1a Order 1 Regional ecosystems within the defined distance from 4.7 Western dump the defining banks of a relevant watercourse on the Refer to Figure 1a vegetation management watercourse map: Stream Order 2 Connectivity area: Western dump, pit and - 11.3.25 9.3 western track - 11.5.2 98.1 Refer to Figure 1a and 1b - 11.7.2 94.8 TOTAL 202.2 Protected flora habitat Habitat for a plant that is Near Threatened wildlife - 30.2 Western dump native frangipani (Cerbera dumicola) Refer to Figure 1a Habitat for a plant that is Near Threatened wildlife - 78.6 Western dump, pit and large-fruited trefoil (Desmodium macrocarpum) western track Refer to Figure 1a Protected fauna habitat OFFICIAL Permit
- H1
The consequence category of any structure must be assessed by a suitably qualified and experienced person in accordance with the Manual for Assessing Consequence Categories and Hydraulic Performance of Structures (EM635) at the following times: a) prior to the design and construction of the structure; or b) prior to any change in its purpose or the nature of its stored contents.
- H2
A consequence assessment report and certification must be prepared for each structure assessed and the report may include a consequence assessment for more than one structure.
- H3
Certification must be provided by the suitably qualified and experienced person who undertook the assessment, in the form set out in the Manual for Assessing Consequence Categories and Hydraulic Performance of Structures (EM635).
- H4
Design and construction of a regulated structure All regulated structures must be designed by, and constructed2 under the supervision of, a suitably qualified and experienced person in accordance with the requirements of the Manual for Assessing Consequence Categories and Hydraulic Performance of Structures (EM635).
- H5
Construction of a regulated structure is prohibited unless the holder has submitted a consequence category assessment report and certification to the administering authority has been certified by a suitably qualified and experienced person for the design and design plan and the associated operating procedures in compliance with the relevant condition of this authority.
- H6
Certification must be provided by the suitably qualified and experienced person who oversees the preparation of the design plan in the form set out in the Manual for Assessing Consequence Categories and Hydraulic Performance of Structures (EM635), and must be recorded in the Regulated Dams/Levees register.
- H7
Regulated structures must: a) be designed and constructed in accordance with and conform to the requirements of the Manual for Assessing Consequence Categories and Hydraulic Performance of Structures (EM635); b) be designed and constructed with due consideration given to ensuring that the design integrity would not be compromised on account of: (i) floodwaters from entering the regulated dam from any watercourse or drainage line; and (ii) wall failure due to erosion by floodwaters arising from any watercourse or drainage line. c) for regulated dams that are dams associated with a failure to contain - seepage: have the floor and sides of the dam designed and constructed to prevent or minimise the passage of the wetting front and any entrained contaminants through either the floor or sides of the dam during the operational life of the dam and for any period of decommissioning and rehabilitation of the dam. 2 Certification of design and construction may be undertaken by different persons. OFFICIAL Permit Environmental Authority EPML02090614
- H8
Certification by the suitably qualified and experienced person who supervises the construction must be submitted to the administering authority on the completion of construction of the regulated structure, and state that: a) the 'as constructed' drawings and specifications meet the original intent of the design plan for that regulated structure; and b) construction of the regulated structure is in accordance with the design plan.
- H9
Operation of a regulated structure Operation of a regulated structure is prohibited unless the holder has submitted to the administering authority: a) one paper copy and one electronic copy of the design plan and certification of the `design plan' in accordance with condition H6; b) a set of `as constructed' drawings and specifications; c) certification of those `as constructed drawings and specifications' in accordance with condition H8; d) where the regulated structure is to be managed as part of an integrated containment system for the purpose of sharing the DSA volume across the system, a copy of the certified system design plan. e) the requirements of this authority relating to the construction of the regulated structure have been met; f) the holder has entered the details required under this authority, into a Register of Regulated Dams; and g) there is a current operational plan for the regulated structures.
- H10
Mandatory reporting level Conditions H11 to H13 inclusive only apply to Regulated Structures which have not been certified as low consequence category for `failure to contain - overtopping'.
- H11
The Mandatory Reporting Level (MRL) must be marked on a regulated dam in such a way that during routine inspections of that dam, it is clearly observable.
- H12
The environmental authority holder must, as soon as practical and within forty-eight (48) hours of becoming aware, notify the administering authority when the level of the contents of a regulated dam reaches the MRL.
- H13
The environmental authority holder must, immediately on becoming aware that the MRL has been reached, act to prevent the occurrence of any unauthorised discharge from the regulated dam. The holder must record any changes to the MRL in the Register of Regulated Structures.
- H14
Design storage allowance The environmental authority holder must assess the performance of each regulated dam or linked containment system over the preceding November to May period based on actual observations of the available storage in each regulated dam or linked containment system taken prior to 1 July of each year.
- H15
By 1 November of each year, storage capacity must be available in each regulated dam (or network of linked containment systems with a shared DSA volume), to meet the Design Storage Allowance (DSA) volume for the dam (or network of linked containment systems). OFFICIAL Permit Environmental Authority EPML02090614
- H16
The environmental authority holder must, as soon as possible and within forty-eight (48) hours of becoming aware that the regulated dam (or network of linked containment systems) will not have the available storage to meet the DSA volume on 1 November of any year, notify the administering authority.
- H17
The environmental authority holder must, immediately on becoming aware that a regulated dam (or network of linked containment systems) will not have the available storage to meet the DSA volume on 1 November of any year, act to prevent the occurrence of any unauthorised discharge from the regulated dam or linked containment systems.
- H18
Annual inspection report Each regulated structure must be inspected each calendar year by a suitably qualified and experienced person.
- H19
At each annual inspection, the condition and adequacy of all components of the regulated structure must be assessed and a suitably qualified and experienced person must prepare an annual inspection report containing details of the assessment and include recommended actions to ensure the integrity of the regulated structure.
- H20
The suitably qualified and experienced person who prepared the annual inspection report must certify the report in accordance with the Manual for Assessing Consequence Categories and Hydraulic Performance of Structures (EM635).
- H21
The environmental authority holder must: a) within twenty (20) business days of receipt of the annual inspection report, provide to the administering authority: (i) The recommendations section of the annual inspection report; (ii) If applicable, any actions being taken in response to those recommendations; and b) if, following receipt of the recommendations and (if applicable) actions, the administering authority requests a full copy of the annual inspection report from the holder, provide this to the administering authority within ten (10) business days of receipt of the request.
- H22
Transfer arrangements The environmental authority holder must provide a copy of any reports, documentation and certifications prepared under this authority, including but not limited to any Register of Regulated Structures, consequence assessment, design plan and other supporting documentation, to a new holder on transfer of this authority.
- H23
Decommissioning and rehabilitation Dams must not be abandoned but be either: a) decommissioned and rehabilitated to achieve compliance with condition H24; or b) be left in-situ for a beneficial use(s) provided that: i) it no longer contains contaminants that will migrate into the environment; ii) it contains water of a quality that is demonstrated to be suitable for its intended beneficial use(s); and iii) the administering authority, the environmental authority holder and the landholder agree in writing that the dam will be used by the landholder following the cessation of the environmentally relevant activity(ies). OFFICIAL Permit Environmental Authority EPML02090614
- H24
After decommissioning, all significantly disturbed land caused by the carrying out of the environmentally relevant activity(ies) must be rehabilitated to meet the following final acceptance criteria: a) the landform is safe for humans and fauna; b) the landform is stable with no subsidence or erosion gullies for at least three (3) years; c) any contaminated land (e.g. contaminated soils) is remediated and rehabilitated d) not allowing for acid mine drainage; or e) there is no ongoing contamination to waters (including groundwater); f) rehabilitation is undertaken in a manner such that any actual or potential acid sulfate soils on the area of significant disturbance are treated to prevent or minimise environmental harm in accordance with the Instructions for the treatment and management of acid sulfate soils (2001) g) all significantly disturbed land is reinstated to the pre-disturbed soil suitability class; h) for land that is not being cultivated by the landholder: (i) groundcover, that is not a declared pest species is established and self-sustaining (ii) vegetation of similar species richness and species diversity to pre-selected analogue sites is established and self-sustaining, and (iii) the maintenance requirements for rehabilitated land is no greater than that required for the land prior to its disturbance caused by carrying out the petroleum activity(ies). i) for land that is to be cultivated by the landholder, cover crop is revegetated, unless the landholder will be preparing the site for cropping within three (3) months of mining activities being completed.
- H25
Register of Regulated Dams A Register of Regulated Dams must be established and maintained by the holder for each regulated dam.
- H26
The environmental authority holder must provisionally enter the required information in the Register of Regulated Dams when a design plan for a regulated dam is submitted to the administering authority.
- H27
The environmental authority holder must make a final entry of the required information in the Register of Regulated Dams once compliance with condition H9 has been achieved.
- H28
The environmental authority holder must ensure that the information contained in the Register of Regulated Dams is current and complete on any given day.
- H29
All entries in the Register of Regulated Dams must be approved by the chief executive officer for the environmental authority holder, or their delegate, as being accurate and correct.
- H30
The environmental authority holder must, at the same time as providing the annual return, supply to the administering authority a copy of the records contained in the Register of Regulated Dams, in the electronic format required by the administering authority. END OF CONDITIONS OFFICIAL Permit Environmental Authority EPML02090614 Definitions Words and phrases used throughout this environmental authority are defined below. Where a definition for a term used in this environmental authority is not provided within this environmental authority, but is provided in the Environmental Protection Act 1994 (the Act) or subordinate legislation, the definition in the Act or subordinate legislation must be used. `the Act' means the Environmental Protection Act 1994. `acid rock drainage' means any contaminated discharge emanating from a mining activity formed through a series of chemical and biological reactions when geological strata is disturbed and exposed to oxygen and moisture. `airblast overpressure' means energy transmitted from the blast site within the atmosphere in the form of pressure waves. The maximum excess pressure in this wave, above ambient pressure is the peak airblast overpressure measured in decibels linear (dB LIN). `annual inspection report' means an assessment prepared by a suitably qualified and experienced person containing details of the assessment against the most recent consequence assessment report and design plan (or system design plan); a) against recommendations contained in previous annual inspections reports; b) against recognised dam safety deficiency indicators; c) for changes in circumstances potentially leading to a change in consequence category; d) for conformance with the conditions of this authority; e) for conformance with the `as constructed' drawings; f) for the adequacy of the available storage in each regulated dam, based on an actual observation or observations taken after 31 May each year but prior to 1 November of that year, of accumulated sediment, state of the containment barrier and the level of liquids in the dam (or network of linked containment systems); g) for evidence of conformance with the current operational plan. `annual exceedance probability' or `AEP' means the probability that at least one event in excess of a particular magnitude will occur in any given year. `appropriately qualified person' or `AQP' means a person who has professional qualifications, training, skills or experience relevant to the nominated subject matter and can give authoritative assessment, advice and analysis on performance relating to the subject matter using the relevant protocols, standards, methods or literature. `assessed' or `assessment' by a suitably qualified and experienced person in relation to a consequence