The future of mineral mining has a changing face, with a switch in focus from commodities like coal to those used in emerging and renewable energy technologies.
Speaking in Mackay last week, Treasurer and Minister for Trade and Investment Cameron Dick said a $5.7 million boost over three years will fund a new future industries development hub with a further expansion of Mackay’s Resources Centre of Excellence.
The future industries hub will enable the Mackay Region to become a key player in Queensland’s new economy minerals sector, as a switch is made to future technology including electric vehicles and long-life batteries, and for products in key sectors like medical, defence and scientific research.
The Treasurer said the funding is a major win for our resources sector, for our regions, and for regional jobs of tomorrow.
“Our government is a strong supporter of the RCOE, having put in more than half the $7 million investment that made this centre a reality,” he said.
“New economy minerals will be in demand for decades to come, and Queensland has world-class deposits, particularly in our north.
“The new funding will allow Mackay’s Resources Centre of Excellence to increase their work within the new economy minerals sector.
"It will ensure we have the skilled workforce and sharpest minds working in our mines.
“A strong new economy minerals sector, supported by Mackay’s Resources Centre of Excellence, will generate more prosperity for our state.”
Resources Minister Scott Stewart said new economy minerals presented significant opportunities for Queensland.
“That’s why we’re making investments like this now, to ensure a strong future for our resources sector,” Mr Stewart said.
“Our government’s vision is to mine, process and manufacture these minerals here in Queensland, taking them all the way from pit to product.
“From copper and bauxite/alumina to silica, vanadium and cobalt, we want to maximise our minerals for the benefit of every Queenslander.”
Resources Centre of Excellence CEO Steven Boxall said they are extremely excited at now being able to implement the RCOE Stage 2: Future Industries Hub.
“This allows us to capture, incubate and grow the industries of the future, putting both our region and Queensland in the box seat to drive low carbon innovation,” Mr Boxall said.
“The METS sector in Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday has the skills and experience to transition and support the emerging new economy minerals sector, which will help secure jobs for the future and our regional economy.”
Treasurer and Minister for Trade and Investment Cameron Dick announced $5.7M in funding to expand the Resources Centre of Excellence
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