Senator Larissa Waters said the proponent realises there is too much opposition to the dredging.

“It’s appalling that the Abbott and Newman governments have ticked off on dumping sludge in the Reef’s World Heritage waters, when even the proponent itself realises there’s too much community opposition and scientific concern to treat the Reef like a rubbish tip,” she said.

“Onshore disposal would be a far better option environmentally and for the tourism and fishing industries, however the problems of increased shipping and export of coal to exacerbate climate change remain.

“That North Queensland Bulk Ports is considering onshore disposal is testament to the passionate, dedicated community opposition and scientific concern against our reef being used as a dump ground.”