River diversion guidelines for Queensland Government
Constructed watercourse diversions are common across coal mines in the Bowen Basin. Since the 1990s, Alluvium has led national best practice in diversion design and rehabilitation, combining waterway science and engineering to deliver long-term, regulator-approved outcomes.

Constructed watercourse diversions are widespread across coal mine sites in Australia, particularly in the Bowen Basin, where over 90 diversions exist. Following poor outcomes in the 1990s, the Queensland Government placed a moratorium on new diversions, prompting industry-led research to improve outcomes. Since then, Alluvium has been at the forefront of developing and applying best practice in diversion design, assessment, and monitoring.
Our team has played a central role in shaping national practice through major ACARP research projects (C8030, C9068, C20017, C23030) and practical delivery of successful diversion projects, including the long-term rehabilitation of Cherwell Creek. Our deep expertise in waterway science and engineering ensures designs meet both ecological and regulatory expectations.
Alluvium has led the design and implementation of many of the highest-performing diversions in the past two decades. Our integrated, science-led approach has earned regulator trust and delivered long-term performance benefits to clients. Importantly, no our designed diversion has ever been refused or required redesign by regulators.