How the Adani project was approved

November 2010 - Adani Mining Pty Ltd beings approval process to establish two new mines and a rail line in the Galilee Basin in north Queensland after Premier Anna Bligh declared the Carmichael coalmine and rail plan a "significant project" which could generate more than 11,000 jobs.

May 2014 - Deputy Premier Jeff Seeney announces the state's coordinator-general approved the $16.5 billion mine and rail project subject to 190 conditions. Final approval rests with federal Environment Minister Greg Hunt

July 2014 - Mr Hunt approves Adani's proposal

August 2015 - Federal Court rules in favour of a legal challenge by Mackay Conservation Group. MCG says Mr Hunt failed to take into account advice on the threatened yakka skink.

October 2015 - The federal government re-approves Carmichael coal mine subject to "36 of the strictest conditions in Australian history."

April 2016 - Queensland government approves mining leases for Adani

December 2016 - Queensland and federal governments approve the 31.5km rail line. Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk and Adani chairman Gautum Adani are expected to announce the start of work on the project in Townsville on Tuesday.