Government to drive for community benefits from Aurukun mine

The Queensland Government has today announced it would appoint Glencore International AG as the Preferred Proponent to develop the Aurukun bauxite deposit in Western Cape York.

The Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Jeff Seeney said since the Government’s decision last March ruling out two other proposals, interest to develop the resource has remained.

“Our objective as a State Government has always been clear - to improve employment, health and educational opportunities for the people of Aurukun by unlocking the economic potential of this valuable bauxite deposit,” Mr Seeney said.

“After continuing discussions with a number of parties, the Queensland Government considers Glencore is best placed in terms of both technical capability and financial strength to successfully take on this challenging development.

“Selecting Glencore as Preferred Proponent is our best opportunity to see this resource developed and to provide economic benefits not only for the people of Aurukun and Cape York Peninsula, but for all Queenslanders.

“As I have said previously, our government is determined to avoid the mistakes of the past, where companies were granted rights but were later unable to deliver on the commitments they made.” 

Mr Seeney said over the coming months the Government and Glencore will work together to finalise the commercial arrangements.

“Our highest priority through this process will be that this development delivers genuine outcomes for the community of Aurukun and other Cape communities,” he said.

“Glencore has discussed an improved works schedule and has committed to milestones in the development of the deposit.”

Mr Seeney said should a satisfactory agreement be reached, Glencore is expected to begin a feasibility study in 2015.

[ENDS] 28 August 2014

Media Contact: Jane Paterson 0417 281 754 or Elizabeth Spry 0418 928 744