Queensland Resources Council (QRC) Chief Executive Ian Macfarlane today thanked Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk for her service to Queensland over the past nine years as leader and wished her well in the future, following the announcement she would be stepping down.
“The Premier has given her life to the public service of Queensland and done much to improve the wellbeing of many people,” Mr Macfarlane said.
“Unfortunately, 18 months ago the Premier also presided over the introduction of the world’s highest coal royalty tax into Queensland that has made our state uncompetitive for new investment in new resources projects.
“We have already seen Glencore cancel the development of the Valeria mine in Central Queensland, costing thousands of jobs, and BHP has openly stated it will not be investing in new projects in Queensland.
“Queensland needs a Premier and government that encourages investment and growth in the resources sector to grow jobs, exports and the state economy.
“A new Premier presents an opportunity to work with industry to make Queensland competitive again.”
Mr Macfarlane said it was extremely important the next Premier of Queensland was willing to be more openly supportive and encouraging of the resources sector.
“The mining and energy sector contributed $116.8 billion to the Queensland economy in the last financial year and supported the jobs of more than 530,000 people across our supply chain,” he said.
“The best outcome for Queensland in terms of jobs and business opportunities will be achieved when the State Government acknowledges the importance of the resources sector in its policy-making decisions to ensure they don’t harm our sector’s future.
“The government’s sudden decision to introduce the highest coal royalty rates in the world in Queensland has damaged our hard-won reputation as a safe and reliable investment destination.
“We need to get back to a place where government policy does not hamper our industry’s ability to compete internationally for long-term investment in new projects, including in the emerging critical minerals industry.
“As soon as the leadership is decided, I will write to the new Premier to request a meeting.
“We would like to have a genuine discussion about our industry’s future and how we can work together more constructively moving forward.”
