Business leaders discuss economic opportunities in Mackay

Minister Assisting the Premier on North Queensland Coralee O’Rourke today hosted a roundtable with Mackay business leaders, the third in a series of forums focusing on developing North Queensland.

“The message received from North Queenslanders is clear, they want a government that listens and works closely with its stakeholders to grow our region,” Minister O’Rourke said.

“This Government is listening and we are starting conversations with business leaders, peak body stakeholders and local government leaders to identify and maximise regional development opportunities.

“These roundtables are the first in a number of measures to address that need, and we will work towards identifying up to five projects to champion over the next three years.”

Topics that have previously been discussed have included aviation routes, export opportunities, port development, agriculture, water security, tropical expertise and branding for North Queensland.

The ideas generated at the roundtables will feed into the Northern Queensland Economic Summit in Cairns from 4–6 November 2015 where the entire region will be showcased to international investors.

Minister O’Rourke said in addition, the Palaszczuk Government would be hosting a Townsville Forum with local government leaders on 9 October 2015 to help form part of the State’s response to the Australian Government’s White Paper on Developing Northern Australia.

“We're holding the Townsville Forum to engage with North Queensland mayors and to help identify key opportunities that could be realised through the funding outlined in the Northern Australia White Paper,” she said.

“It is anticipated that almost every North Queensland Mayor will be attending, which means each region’s key investment needs and priorities will be recognised.”

Minister O’Rourke said the Palaszczuk Government was committed to working with the Australian Government, industry and investors to make sure Queensland maximises its benefits from the White Paper.

North Queensland business forums have already been held in Cairns and Townsville and future events will be held in Mount Isa and Brisbane.

Media Contact:          Minister O’Rourke’s office                  3719 7184