Queensland unlocks northwest mining opportunities

The Queensland Government has announced a series of incentives aimed at pushing growth and investment across mining and freight sectors.

The new incentives aim to cut rail access charges for emerging rock phosphate producers and simultaneously increase freight volumes and support new entrants in the market.

Queensland Natural Resources and Mines Minister Dale Last says that the initiative will deliver real outcomes for the region.

“We want to see mines opening, not closing,” he said.

“That’s why we’re incentivising phosphate on the Mount Isa rail line, to take the pressure off new and existing rock phosphate rail users while they develop their operations.

“Global demand for phosphate is strong and Northwest Queensland is well positioned to benefit.

“We’re taking action to ensure emerging producers get the support they need to scale up.”

AMEC chief executive Warren Pearce says that the incentives are a proactive move.

“The types of companies that are innovative enough to tackle these opportunities are usually small and nimble, so allowing third parties to do testing on large tailings opportunities is a huge step forward,” he said.

The Queensland Government has also made a new deal with Glencore, the owner of the Mount Isa mines, that will allow third-party access to copper tailings to its sites.

Glencore has also progressed operations at its Black Star open cut project, with feasibility studies now underway and the Queensland Government striving to keep the company’s smelter operating.

“As part of our negotiations, Glencore has agreed to allow third-party access to the copper tailings at the Mount Isa site, opening up new processing opportunities and value-add potential,” said Mr Last.

“This is a significant boost for local workers, contractors and suppliers right across the supply chain.”