QLD resources sector backs $100m infrastructure fund

Queensland Deputy Premier and State Development Minister Steven Miles said the fund was an acknowledgement of the resources sector’s contribution throughout the pandemic.

“Despite the challenges COVID-19 has brought, our resources sector has been able to continue operating throughout the pandemic, helping support our economy,” Miles said.

“Not-for-profit organisations and local governments in resource communities are now able to apply for between $100,000 and $8 million for infrastructure projects that will benefit their communities.”

The fund is a partnership between government, resources companies and the Queensland Resources Council (QRC).

Minister for Resources Scott Stewart said funds like this one were integral to Queensland’s COVID-19 Economic Recovery Plan.

“The Queensland Government has committed $30 million to the fund with participating Queensland resources companies contributing the remaining $70 million,” Stewart said.

“These communities are critical to rebuilding Queensland’s economy. And these new infrastructure projects will create more jobs and more opportunities for regional Queenslanders.”

An expert advisory committee to adjudicate the receiving projects will include South32 specialist corporate affairs Leah Morgan; Glencore Coal director logistics and procurement Anthony Pitt; and BMA Hay Point coal terminal general manager Melissa Johnson.

Joining these industry representatives will also be government and community representatives.

These referees will recommend projects which increase access to services and enhance the wellbeing for resources communities; enhance safety, reduce social inequality and benefit disadvantaged communities; and supplement existing infrastructure projects by delivering new ones as soon as possible to in-need resources communities.

Queensland resources sector employs over 80,000 workers and supports over 15,000 Queensland businesses.

Chair of the expert advisory committee Tony Mooney said a large number of applicants from a broad range of projects in the first round are expected.

Applications close on August 27 and funding announcements will be made in late 2021.