Bioenergy industry growing STRONG in Queensland

Published Wednesday, 13 November, 2019 at 07:00 AM

Minister for State Development, Manufacturing, Infrastructure and Planning
The Honourable Cameron Dick

One of Australia’s major bioenergy industry showcases has returned to Brisbane during the state’s first Bio Innovation Week and kicks off today at the State Library of Queensland from 13-14 November, supported by the Queensland Government.

Minister for State Development Cameron Dick said Bioenergy STRONG 2019 will see national and global investors, researchers and bioenergy producers converge on the state capital, and will place the bio world’s focus firmly on Queensland.

“Queensland is a national leader in bioenergy and has a clear vision and strong policies to accelerate this new industry,” Mr Dick said.

“It’s estimated Australia’s bioenergy industry currently offers investment opportunities of between $3.5 billion and $5 billion, and Queensland is ready to turn more of these opportunities into reality.

“Australia’s first biojet and 100 per cent renewable diesel fuel trials are both being delivered here in Queensland.

“Meanwhile, the Palaszczuk Government’s Queensland Biofutures 10-Year Roadmap and Action Plan sets out our plan to attract investment in local bioproducts and to create a $1 billion bio industry in our state.

“KPMG’s latest Bioenergy State of the Nation Report acknowledges Queensland as the nation leader when it comes to bioenergy policies, and we want to keep building our bio profile to maximise the potential of this industry,” he said.

“Bioenergy STRONG 2019 is a unique and valuable platform to sell Queensland’s bio credentials and push for more bio projects that will grow our economy and create new high-value, knowledge-intensive jobs across our state.”

Queensland Biofutures Envoy and Bioenergy Australia board member Professor Ian O’Hara said Queensland would reap enormous benefits from hosting the conference. 

“Developments in biofuels and bioproducts are creating new industries around the world,” Prof. O’Hara said.

“By working together, Queensland's government, research and industry sectors have the expertise necessary to capture these opportunities for our state.”

Bioenergy Australia CEO Shahana McKenzie welcomed the Queensland Government’s support for Bioenergy STRONG 2019 and the emerging industry.

“We are delighted the Queensland Government is leading the way with policies and commitments that have the potential to create bioenergy jobs and attract new investment, particularly in regional areas,” Ms McKenzie said.

Queensland Bio Innovation Week features a range of events and activities from 11-15 November, with the focus on new opportunities for economic growth and the creation of high-value, knowledge-intensive regional jobs.

ENDS

Media contact: Ben Doyle 0400 775 561