THE Queensland Government has launched a 30-year strategy targeting infrastructure and planning improvements to drive growth and employment in the state’s thriving resource sector.
Speaking at the Queensland Resource Council’s ‘State of the Sector’ forum, Premier Campbell Newman announced the ResourcesQ initiative would support the mining, oil and gas sectors as a combined pillar of the state economy.
“Under Labor, the resources sector was shouldering too great a burden and had no clear direction from the Government about its long-term future,” Premier Newman said.
“In contrast, the LNP Government will work collaboratively with the resources industry to develop a strategic vision which will drive this sector and generate significant benefits for decades to come.”
The initiative involves a series of forums with key industry stakeholders to map out a long-term plan and vision for the resource industry and replenish investor confidence in the state.
“For this vision and action plan to be robust and effective we need to hear from those in the industry and community about where they would like to see the resources sector in 30 years’ time, and the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead,” Premier Newman said.
“The aim will be to ensure Queensland remains a global resource destination and continues to build on its competitive strengths.”
Minister for Natural Resources and Mines Andrew Cripps noted that ResourcesQ embellished the Newman Government’s belief that the resource industry is crucial to a strong economy.
“The mining industry provides direct and indirect employment for more than 300,000 Queenslanders and delivers significant economic benefit across the state’s economy,” he said.
“We will work with all those involved in Queensland’s resources sector – from the pit to the port, from the drill hole to the transmission line, from the permit application to the smelter, and from the environmental assessment to the building of a rail network.”
The Department of Natural Resources and Mines will lead the development of the ResourcesQ initiative, engaging with key stakeholders in coming months to plan the future with Australia’s resource sector.
