We would like to take this opportunity to thank the Crisafulli Queensland Government for their proactive engagement with our Members, Glencore, Harmony Gold and Incitec Pivot, and for effectively negotiating improved operating conditions and support to help unlock new mining and freight opportunities in the North West region.
Townsville Enterprise CEO Claudia Brumme-Smith said the announcement delivered decisive policy action and financial relief to the invaluable North West corridor.
“Both the Blackstar and Eva Copper Mine projects are integral to the North West’s future in the coming decades," she said.
"These projects will underpin the entire copper processing supply chain from west right through to Townsville and it is welcome news they are receiving the attention they need from the Queensland Government.
"This package indicates the State is highly-aware of the importance of growing our critical minerals extraction, processing and exporting capacity here in the North.
“Additionally increasing rail freight and incentivising new entrants to elect rail as their freight haulage method of choice is great news.
“The North West rail line is a user-pays method, meaning the more customers on the line the more affordable it becomes for all operators.”
Yesterday, the Crisafulli LNP Government announced a package of investment-enabling policy changes for the North West region, including:
Rail cost relief for phosphate producers
Queensland Rail will introduce an incentive package to reduce access charges on the Mount Isa rail line, providing significant savings for emerging rock phosphate producers.
This measure is expected to increase freight volumes and support new entrants in the market.
Unlocking tailings access and project advancement
The Queensland Government has secured a commitment from Glencore to allow third-party access to copper tailings at its Mount Isa Mines site.
Glencore has also committed to progressing its Black Star Open Cut project, with feasibility studies already underway. This project is estimated to provide upto 400 ongoing jobs over an upto-20 year lifespan.
Support for Eva Copper project
The Resources Cabinet Committee process will facilitate the delivery of any outstanding approvals or information required to move Harmony Gold’s Eva Copper Mine project toward construction.
This project, already a “prescribed project” for the State, is expected to provide upto 450 ongoing jobs over an upto-15 year lifespan.
Queensland Minister for Natural Resources and Mines Dale Last said the coordinated measures would deliver real outcomes for the region.
“We want to see mines opening, not closing. That’s why we’re incentivising phosphate on the Mount Isa rail line, to take the pressure off new and existing rock phosphate rail users while they develop their operations," he said.
“Global demand for phosphate is strong, and North West Queensland is well positioned to benefit. We’re taking action to ensure emerging producers get the support they need to scale up.
“But the number one issue on my desk is the future of the Mount Isa Copper Smelter.
“I’ve met with Glencore CEO Gary Nagle twice since we formed Government, and I’ve held numerous other discussions to keep the smelter’s future on the agenda.
“The Crisafulli Government is doing all it can to ensure its continued operations. As part of our negotiations, Glencore has agreed to allow third-party access to the copper tailings at the Mount Isa site, opening up new processing opportunities and value-add potential.
“This is a significant boost for local workers, contractors and suppliers right across the supply chain.
“We’re also cutting red tape, backing investment, and creating the conditions for long-term jobs in the North West. This is particularly important as Eva Copper reaches its key financial decisions.”
