Queensland opposition leader David Crisafulli has announced $2.5 million in funding which was proposed by the Queensland Resources Council (QRC) in its 2024 election priorities.
The funding, announced by Crisafulli on Friday August 30, is aimed at supporting the need the QRC has identified for more investments in skilled employment and for women in the resources sector.
QRC Chief Executive Officer Janette Hewson says the funding would support two programs that seek to secure a prosperous future for Queensland and ensure long-term investment in the sector.
“This investment addresses one of the key challenges facing the resources sector and regional communities to attract and retain a skilled workforce,” Hewson says.
“As an industry we are making major investments to attract and retain skilled workers and encourage young people to consider one of the many careers available in the resources sector.
“We are pleased the opposition recognises the need for regional education hubs to support local schools and have listened to the QRC and its members’ calls to encourage more women into the sector.”
Hewson adds that this announcement recognises the opposition listening to the QRC’s 2024 election priorities released last month, and comes after the Liberal National Party supporting the return of the Resources Sub-Committee into Cabinet and Regulatory Impact Statements.
“This is a positive start to what the resources sector is seeking from government and an important milestone for young people and women who want to live, train, and work in their local community.”
The funding will enable the education arm of the QRC, the Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy, to establish new regional education hubs and expand into 50 primary and secondary schools.
A $2 million investment, over a three-year period, will support areas like Mackay to strengthen the talent pipeline, as well as address enduring skills shortages, particularly across STEM fields.
The opposition has also announced a further $500,000 for a QRC-led training program and public awareness campaign to encourage women into operating and technical roles in the sector.
Only 15% of women are in operating roles and Hewson says this initiative will encourage more women to join the sector.
The QRC is Queensland’s peak body for coal, metal, and gas explorers, producers, and suppliers across the resources sector.
Write to Aaliyah Rogan at Mining.com.au
Images: Queensland Resources Council
