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Highlights
- Queensland plans infrastructure revamp to boost coal exports
- Focus on cutting red tape to speed up coal freight logistics
- Strategic ties with Asia targeted to lift export volumes
Queensland is set to supercharge its coal export capabilities following a strategic government roundtable focused on unlocking bottlenecks in the state’s resources logistics network. The initiative aims to enhance freight efficiency and expand global trade relations, delivering a significant economic boost to regional communities across the state.
The Brisbane roundtable convened key stakeholders from the coal sector to tackle longstanding challenges including infrastructure limitations, port congestion, and regulatory inefficiencies. With export volumes currently under 200 million tonnes despite a processing capacity exceeding 300 million tonnes, the Queensland Government is eager to close this gap.
Natural Resources and Mines Minister Dale Last emphasized the importance of regulatory reform, announcing that the Resources Cabinet Committee is actively progressing streamlined approval frameworks. These reforms are intended to better synchronize operations “from pit to port,” reinforcing Queensland’s position as a reliable global supplier.
The initiative gains urgency amid robust international demand for high-quality coal used in both steelmaking and energy generation. Notably, key export destinations such as China, India, Japan, and South Korea are in focus as the state strengthens ties with long-term partners.
According to Minister for Finance, Trade, Employment, and Training Ros Bates, aging logistics infrastructure and outdated procedural red tape are holding back Queensland’s full coal export potential. The government aims to work closely with private sector partners to address these inefficiencies, boost throughput, and ensure the entire supply chain operates at peak capacity.
Coal has consistently played a pivotal role in Queensland’s economic landscape. In the 2021-22 financial year, the sector contributed a massive AU$71.8 billion to the state’s economy, accounting for nearly 70% of its total resource exports. Enhancing logistics performance and reducing friction in export processes could unlock billions more in value.
This development is significant not just for regional Queensland but also for investors and stakeholders in ASX-listed coal exporters. Major players such as Whitehaven Coal (ASX:WHC), New Hope Corporation (ASX:NHC), and Stanmore Resources (ASX:SMR) are poised to benefit from any logistical and policy improvements.
With the energy sector forming a key segment of the ASX200, these initiatives may hold broader market implications. By positioning Queensland as a more competitive export hub, the move could influence investor sentiment across Australia's energy and mining indexes.
As global energy dynamics evolve and infrastructure reforms accelerate, Queensland’s latest push could mark a turning point for the coal trade in the Asia-Pacific region.
