Five major Queensland coal producing regions will share in $118.2 million for community projects from the latest round of the Resources Community Infrastructure Fund.
The $118.2 million from the RCIF’s third round builds on $55 million from Round 2 and $47 million from the fund’s first round in 2021.
The fund’s biggest project will be an up to $40 million investment for the Isaac Resources Excellence Precinct at Moranbah that will focus on innovation.
New housing will also be built for workers, medical students and retirees, there will be new and upgraded sports facilities, community and cultural centres and halls, and upgrades to an airport, botanic gardens and the Phillips Creek bridge.
Minister for Resources Scott Stewart said that the resources sector is worth $86.5 billion to the Queensland economy and employs more than 70,000 workers with nearly 60 per cent of those across regional Queensland.
“This RCIF funding round focuses on coal communities and the biggest investment is up to $40 million for a new precinct which will lead resources innovation for all of Queensland,” Minister Stewart said.
“Our communities who play a part in producing, processing and transporting coal continue to be the backbone of our economy.
“It’s only right that the Queensland Government has stepped up to wholly fund Round 3 of the RCIF.”
Isaac Regional Council Mayor Anne Baker said the nearly $40 million in RCIF funding will support the future of resource communities across Queensland by establishing a centre of excellence that will advance new technologies in the resources sector.
“Isaac Resources Excellence Precinct will be built in Moranbah at the heart of the Bowen Basin and include research, education and future partners precincts,” she said.
“We will be leading the way in bringing innovation to the Queensland resources sector, including low-carbon processes, new workforce skills and key initiatives such as mine site rehabilitation and deeper First Nation partnerships.”
The funding has been welcomed by the Queensland Resources Council (QRC).
Acting Chief Executive Officer Judy Bertram said coal companies paid more than $15 billion in royalties to the State Government last financial year (2022-23).
“This is an enormous contribution by the coal industry to the State Government budget, and it’s only fair and reasonable that people living in regional areas benefit from the strong performance of the coal sector.”
Isaac RCIF Round 3 Community Project Grants
Dysart Golf Course Clubhouse Refurbishment and Facilities Expansion – $907,954 to Dysart Golf Club for redevelopment of the clubhouse to create a family-friendly community venue.
Dysart Golf Course Irrigation System Replacement – $486,195 to Dysart Golf Club for the installation of a fully integrated watering system, including holding tanks and pump.
Isaac Affordable Housing Bushlark Drive Moranbah – $2 million to Isaac Affordable Housing Fund for the construction of a block of three units for non-mining workers in Moranbah.
Isaac Resources Excellence Precinct – $39.72 million to Isaac Regional Council for a resources-focused centre at Moranbah, including education and future partners precincts.
Image source: Isaac Regional Council
