Mining projects streamlined to save jobs

The Bligh Government will fast track around a dozen key mining projects to create more than 1500 jobs in regional Queensland.

Mines and Energy Minister Geoff Wilson held top level talks today with the representatives of the mining sector, unions and senior government officials on the need to protect jobs and support Queensland’s mining industry.

“We have targeted 11 key mining projects that we can get up and running by cutting through red tape,” he said.

“If we streamline the process, we’ll be able to create more than 1500 construction jobs in the regions.

“Mining companies around the world are shedding staff. What we’re seeing is the human face of the global economic crisis and the harsh reality that we are indeed in tough economic times.

“Mining is important to Queensland and so are the 37,000 men and women who work in our mines. That’s why the Bligh Government is taking swift action. We want to do all we can to protect those workers and their jobs.

“New mines mean new jobs. Not only that, local communities and businesses rely heavily on the money spent by mining companies and their workers.

“That’s why the Bligh Government is taking steps to fast track these projects - following due process, of course - as quickly as possible,” he said.

Minister Wilson said his Department of Mines and Energy would work with the Department of Natural Resources and Water, the Environmental Protection Agency, the Department of Infrastructure and Planning, and other government agencies to identify areas of regulatory overlap and to streamline approval processes.

“We are closely monitoring outstanding mining lease applications and working directly with companies on actions we can take to speed up the process,” he said.

“We will also talk to the Rudd Government about ways to expedite Commonwealth approvals for key projects.”

Mr Wilson said today’s tripartite meeting was also briefed by Professor John Rolfe of Central Queensland University on the potential impacts of the mining downturn on Bowen Basin communities.

“I was heartened by Professor Rolfe’s assessment that the impact of the downturn at a regional level may not be as sharp as we all fear.

“He believes most mining companies are keen to maintain their core workforce and that there is scope for other industries to fill their labour shortages with displaced mine workers and contractors,” Mr Wilson said.

The Bligh Government has fast-tracked $27 million from the Sustainable Resource Communities Fund for investments in key mining towns to stimulate regional employment.

Mr Wilson said the State Government would continue to support displaced mining workers through its Rapid Response Teams and 1800 035 749 helpline.

“So far we have received nearly 350 calls to the helpline and have registered 175 displaced workers from regions including Townsville, Rockhampton, Mackay, Emerald, Cairns, Mount Isa and south east Queensland.

"One of the key roles of the teams is to help workers identify their skills – to help them explore job opportunities in other industries and get them working again,” he said.

“We will ride through this storm together. Queensland’s mining industry is resilient with a strong long-term future,” he said.

Media Inquiries: Ellen McIntyre 3225 1819