The Queensland Government is driving further investment in North West Queensland, with the aim of unlocking new mining and freight opportunities across the region.
Yesterday (7 May), the state government revealed new incentives to cut rail access charges for emerging rock phosphate producers, as well as commitments from Glencore (LSE:GLEN) to allow third-party access to copper tailings at the Mount Isa Mine site.
Glencore has also committed to progressing its Black Star Open Cut Project, which is expected to provide up to 400 jobs with a mine life of up to 20 years. Feasibility studies are currently underway with expected completion by the end of 2026.
Meanwhile, the Resources Cabinet Committee is looking to fast track the Eva Copper Project towards construction by facilitating the delivery of any outstanding approvals or information required.
Since acquiring this project, Harmony Gold Mining (NYSE:HMY) has advanced a Feasibility Study to determine the most effective route towards production, as reported by Mining.com.au.
Minister for Natural Resources and Mines Dale Last says the government is prioritising the development of the mining industry in Queensland to deliver meaningful outcomes across the region.
“We want to see mines opening, not closing. 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,” Last says.
The Association of Mining and Exploration Companies (AMEC) supports the Queensland Government’s push towards unlocking new mining opportunities across North West Queensland.
CEO Warren Pearce says it is a “proactive move” and the association commends the government’s facilitation towards innovative measures at Mount Isa.
“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,” Pearce says.
AMEC also welcomed the government’s move to address the high costs on the Mount Isa rail line by introducing an incentive package to provide “significant savings” for emerging rock phosphate producers.
“This is a sensible step to increase exports and incentivise expansion of this important commodity,” Pearce says.
Additionally, AMEC recently provided its feedback in a submission to the Department of Resources on the Draft Abandoned Mines re-commercialisation principles.
The organisation hopes to further consult with the government in making this legislation effective.
AMEC says they will continue to consult with members and provide feedback to the government on their behalf when necessary.
The Association of Mining and Exploration Companies represents over 500 exploration companies, emerging miners and producers, and other associated businesses from all over Australia.
Mining.com.au is an official member of AMEC.
Write to Maddison Elliott at Mining.com.au
Images: Stock
