New investments in the resources industry continue to support jobs across regional Queensland and will remain a key driver in the economic recovery post COVID-19.

Minister for Resources, Water and Northern Australia Keith Pitt welcomed the announcement today that BHP Mitsubishi Alliance (BMA) will invest $100 million at its Daunia mine and keep jobs in the region as the mine introduces automated vehicles.

“Investments in the resources sector are a boost to the local economy and, as this example shows, these investments also benefit regional and indigenous businesses,” Minister Pitt said.

“The resources sector and mining jobs are so important to the economies of Central Queensland and North Queensland.  It is essential that these jobs are kept in the region and I welcome BHP’s commitment to maintain a locally based workforce even as new automated trucks are introduced on site.

“I also welcome the opportunities for local workers to develop new skills to use on site. 

“We know that mining workers have a long-term future whether it’s in coal mines or critical minerals.”

The project will also support additional jobs at Hastings Deering's Central Queensland operations as they assist with truck and ancillary fleet conversion.

“The resources sector is delivering on a whole range of jobs across regional Australia, with Central and North Queensland emerging as a leader in new mining technologies,” Minister Pitt said.

“The Coalition Government unashamedly backs jobs in the resources sector and we believe these jobs will be the foundation for regional communities for decades into the future.

“While no part of Australia has been immune to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, the resources sector has continued to operate and continued to employ people during these difficult months.”

 The most recent data shows Australia’s resource and energy export earnings are estimated to have reached an all-time high of $293 billion in 2019–20 despite the impact of COVID 19.

The Morrison-McCormack Government is also supporting long-term jobs in the resources sector through our $30 million investment in the CQ School of Mines and Manufacturing.

 The CQ School of Mines and Manufacturing is part of the Government’s plan for a stronger economy that would help Central Queenslanders train locally in industries supporting more local jobs.

Media contact: Minister Pitt's office 02 6277 7180