The Australian state of Queensland has approved a A$2bn ($1.68bn) project to build a rail line in the Galilee Basin.
Hancock Coal will construct the 495km standard gauge railway, which will be completed by 2013, according to abc.net.au.
The rail corridor is expected to link Hancock Coal's Alpha mine with an export terminal at the port of Abbot Point.
Hancock is expected to consult with landholders in the corridor's path.
