This would clear the way for the proponent, the Mitchell Group, to finalise its EIS for the project, deputy premier Jeff Seeney said.

"I'm delighted that the Queensland coordinator-general has approved the final terms of reference for the EIS for the proposed coal export facility. It means we are one step closer to knowing if the project is fit to be approved," Seeney said.

"The proposed project has the potential to create nearly 400 jobs for the region and will help to meet the demand for essential coal export facilities, allowing up to 22 million tonnes of coal to be shipped out each year."

The facility would transport coal from the existing Blackwater and Moura rail networks via a 1.3km rail spur.

If approved, it would include a rail unloading facility, an overland conveyor system, stockyards, a barge loading terminal in Raglan Creek adjacent to Port Alma and a rail spur connecting the site to the central Queensland coal rail networks. It will also include associated power and water supply infrastructure.

"The overall objective of this project is to alleviate bottlenecks at ports and use barges and trans-shipping technology to avoid the need for major port structures or significant dredging," Seeney said.

The coordinator-general received 28 submissions from the public and advisory agencies on the draft terms of reference.

"Based on the feedback received, we have improved the terms of reference to consider the protection of the marine environment and the management of coal handling around the existing industrial facility at Port Alma," Seeney said.

"The EIS assesses the potential environmental, economic or social impacts of the proposed project and suggests ways of avoiding, minimising or mitigating any risks.

"We will circulate the EIS to key community and industry groups and advertise for public comment when the coordinator-general is satisfied that it adequately addresses the terms of reference."