Minister for Resources, Water and Northern Australia Keith Pitt has welcomed BHP’s announcement that it will fund two new COVID-19 testing centres in Central Queensland.

Minister Pitt said it’s another great example of the resources sector’s efforts to keep its workforce and surrounding communities safe.

“The testing centres in Moranbah and Proserpine will keep people away from local hospitals and medical centres by targeting those showing symptoms or considered at risk of contracting the virus,” Minister Pitt said.

“I congratulate and thank BHP for the $7.6 million in funding the company is providing to establish the centres that will boost local health services and increase the ability to detect COVID-19 cases as early as possible.

“This will help protect BHP workers and those living in Isaac and Whitsunday region communities around the worksites.”

“Resources companies across the country have taken extraordinary steps to protect workers’ health and keep their mines operating, which is very important for the national economy.

“Strict protocols have been enforced, with the co-operation of workers, that includes regular temperature testing, shift changes and minimising the need for fly-in fly-out (FIFO) workers,” Minister Pitt said.

“Many staff members have left families for a long period to base themselves at mining camp sites, to reduce the risk of contracting corona virus and travel.

“These actions, from both companies and workers, are going well above and beyond measures in place throughout the rest of the community.

“The result is that a vitally important part of our national economy is able to continue operating, keeping thousands of Australians in jobs,” Minister Pitt said.

Media contact: Minister Pitt's office 02 6277 7180