Consultation closes soon on plan for Queensland’s resources future

Queenslanders have one week to have their say on the Palaszczuk Government’s 30-year-plan to drive jobs and prosperity in a sustainable resources industry.

Resources Minister Scott Stewart said he was encouraged by community and industry feedback to date on the draft Queensland Resources Industry Development Plan.

Feedback on the draft plan is open until February 11.

“Over the past few months, my Department and I have spoken to communities, resources companies, workers, local councils and businesses to help shape a plan that will take the industry on a viable path forward,” Mr Stewart said.

“The resources industry has been the backbone of Queensland’s economy for over a century, and we want that to continue for many years to come.

“I thank everyone for taking the time to submit their feedback with more than 100 pieces of feedback on the draft plan to date.

“By working together, we will create a stronger, more prosperous sector that benefits all of us.”

The draft plan was the result of state-wide industry and community engagement beginning early 2021 and was released for consultation by Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk in November 2021.

The three-month consultation period ends on February 11 and has included a series of physical and online forums in regional and metropolitan centres.

Mr Stewart said the government was focused on securing a long-term future for Queensland’s resources industry.

“Our draft plan aims to bolster our existing strengths in exploration, gas and mining, which our regional communities rely on,” Mr Stewart said.

“However, we also need to ensure the resources sector can adapt to a changing global market by capitalising on growing demand for Queensland’s new economy minerals and strengthening the industry’s environmental, social and governance credentials.”

The draft plan has 43 actions that address six key focus areas:

• growing and diversifying the industry
• strengthening ESG credentials and protecting the environment
• fostering coexistence and sustainable communities
• ensuring strong and genuine First Nations partnerships
• building a safe and resilient workforce; and
• improving regulatory efficiency.

The final plan is set to be released in mid-2022.

For more information on the plan or to find out how to make a submission, visit resources.qld.gov.au/home/qridp

Media contact: Bryce Heaton 0434 575 237