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Newman had promised to block the New Hope Corporation's plan to double coal production to 10 million tonnes after grass roots opposition to the expansion received high profile backing that included radio commentator Alan Jones.

He reportedly said yesterday it was "inappropriate" to expand the mine in the state's southern food bowl which lies 150km west of Brisbane, The Australian reported.

"In fact, the Liberal National Party doesn't support open-cut coal mining on strategic cropping land anywhere in the state," a spokesperson for Newman reportedly said.

"The LNP will not support the proposal for Acland stage three [because] it covers some areas of strategic cropping land, and would come too close to local communities."

Queensland Resources Council chief executive Michael Roche earlier this week said the QRC had established a constructive relationship with Newman and his team when it was in opposition around promoting good policy for the resources sector.

“We’re now looking forward to carrying that relationship over into government,” Roche said.

“Mr Newman and the LNP have committed to delivering investment certainty for the Queensland resources sector in return for our sector delivering [the] world’s best environmental and social outcomes.”

A New Hope spokesman reportedly told the The Australian: "This has been the LNP's stated position during the election campaign and we will continue to work with the new LNP government.”

New Hope had previously pledged to move the Jondaryan rail loading facility away from the township outskirts to an area on the mining lease if stage three of the New Acland project gained approval.

“This significant $62 million investment demonstrates our goodwill and commitment to maintaining a working partnership with the local community,” New Hope chief operating officer Bruce Denney said.

“All we have ever asked for is that the stage three proposal be judged on the facts and its merits.”