Thousands of new jobs in mining and other industry sectors could soon be created in north west Queensland thanks to a recently completed strategic development study, according to Premier Campbell Newman.
Newman unveiled the findings of the North West Queensland Strategic Development Study yesterday, claiming it would “unlock the region’s economic potential”.
“North West Queensland has huge economic advantages in untapped mineral resources, tourism and agriculture…” Newman said.
“The study led by Mt Isa to Townsville Economic development Zone (MITEZ) says that, if the right infrastructure and planning is implemented, the region could have 40 per cent more workers and a 25 per cent increase in population.
“Four key strategic development priorities are identified in the study which includes new mine exploration and development, irrigated and intensified agriculture, energy generation, security and export, and supply chain productivity, efficiency, and reliability.
“The report confirms that the north west is bursting with opportunities to improve transport, electricity and water storage to support new economic growth for Queensland in the future.
“It includes specific recommendations for new projects to upgrade North West roads and transport, and to attract investment. It’s about getting more big industry into a vast and productive region.”
Group Chairman and Mayor of Mt Isa City Council The Hon. Cr Tony McGrady said this study demonstrated when people worked together with a common goal, anything was possible.
“This study can itself be the incentive for the whole of the North West to work together to create catalyst development to support the mining, tourism and agricultural industries which will bring jobs and security to the region.”
The study found potential economic benefits could include broad taxation and royalty income, greater export values and volumes flowing through Queensland’s supply chain, broad employment opportunities and population decentralisation resulting in decreased infrastructure pressure in major centres.
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