Australia considers criminal investigation into coal carrier

Australian Federal Police (AFP) have been asked to launch a criminal investigation into a Chinese coal carrier that ran aground in the Great Barrier Reef.

The Chinese-registered Shen Neng 1 is stuck on a protected part of the reef off the central Queensland coast near Rockhampton after colliding into it at full speed on Saturday.

An AFP spokeswoman told AAP they have received a referral to investigate the event.

"AFP has received a referral from another agency and is evaluating the referral," she said.

Meanwhile, authorities are expected to start pumping 950 tonnes of heavy oil from the vessel on Friday.

Massive booms have been placed adjacent to the ship to contain possible spills.

Contingency plans are in place in case there is any spillage.

- AAP