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Highlights:
Queensland introduces incentives to reduce rail access charges for emerging rock phosphate producers.
Glencore commits to providing third-party access to copper tailings and advancing the Black Star Open Cut Project.
AMEC praises the proactive measures and cost-saving initiatives in North West Queensland's mining sector.
The Queensland Government has unveiled new measures to support mining projects in North West Queensland, reinforcing its commitment to fostering further growth in the sector. This initiative focuses on creating new mining and freight avenues while enhancing the region’s resource potential. Among the primary developments, the state government has introduced incentives to reduce rail access charges for emerging rock phosphate producers. These incentives are designed to ease the financial burdens on smaller operations and pave the way for smoother logistics, contributing to the overall growth of Queensland’s mining infrastructure.
Additionally, global mining company Glencore, listed on the London Stock Exchange (LSE:GLEN), has pledged to allow third-party access to copper tailings at its Mount Isa Mine site. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to encourage innovation in the mining sector, allowing other companies to conduct testing on the tailings to extract further value. Glencore is also advancing the Black Star Open Cut Project, which is expected to create numerous job opportunities in the region. Feasibility studies for the project are currently in progress, with completion expected by the end of 2026.
Support for Local Mining Projects
Another significant move in Queensland’s mining landscape is the fast-tracking of the Eva Copper Project. The Resources Cabinet Committee is facilitating the delivery of required approvals and information to streamline the construction process. The project, which was acquired by Harmony Gold Mining (NYSE:HMY), is progressing through a Feasibility Study. This study aims to determine the most effective approach to achieving production and further advancing the region’s mining capacity.
Minister for Natural Resources and Mines Dale Last emphasized that the government’s priorities are clear: the development of new mines to enhance the state’s economic future. The reduction of rail access charges for phosphate producers aims to alleviate the pressure on the Mount Isa rail line and support both new and existing phosphate operators as they scale their operations.
AMEC's Support for Queensland's Mining Initiatives
The Association of Mining and Exploration Companies (AMEC) has expressed strong support for the Queensland Government’s approach, calling the measures a proactive step in unlocking new mining potential across the North West region. AMEC CEO Warren Pearce praised the government’s efforts to provide access to testing on copper tailings and reduce logistical costs on the Mount Isa rail line. He noted that such initiatives would benefit smaller, agile companies that are typically well-positioned to explore and capitalize on emerging opportunities.
The organization also commended the government's decision to introduce an incentive package for emerging rock phosphate producers. By offering significant savings on rail access, the Queensland Government is actively supporting the expansion of phosphate exports, which plays a crucial role in the local economy and the broader mining sector.
AMEC’s Ongoing Consultation with the Government
AMEC has also provided feedback to the Department of Resources regarding the Draft Abandoned Mines Re-commercialisation Principles. The association aims to continue collaborating with the Queensland Government to ensure the successful implementation of this legislation. AMEC represents over 500 exploration companies, emerging miners, and related businesses throughout Australia, working to ensure that policies align with the sector's needs and challenges.
The collective efforts from the Queensland Government, Glencore, Harmony Gold, and AMEC underscore the ongoing importance of the mining sector in North West Queensland, with various stakeholders contributing to the region’s sustained growth and innovation. These initiatives align with broader goals to strengthen the state's resource sector and drive long-term economic benefits for the community.
