The Queensland Resources Council (QRC) has commended the Queensland government’s decision to allocate A$118.2-million under the Resources Community Infrastructure Fund (RCIF) for projects in coal-producing regions. The funding has been warmly welcomed, but the QRC has emphasized the need for further investment, specifically in the areas of road infrastructure and health services.
Judy Bertram, acting CEO of the QRC, highlighted the significant financial contributions made by coal companies to the state government. Last year alone, these companies paid over A$15-billion in royalties. Based on current coal price predictions, it is expected that they will contribute almost A$13-billion this year. This means that by the end of June, Queensland coal companies will have paid a staggering total of around A$28-billion in royalty taxes to the state government in just two years.
Bertram argues that the substantial financial contributions from the coal industry warrant increased investment in regional Queensland, ensuring that the local communities can reap the benefits of the sector’s strong performance.
As part of the latest round of the RCIF, the Queensland government announced that A$118.2-million would be allocated to five major coal-producing regions. Eighteen community projects will receive funding, and an additional A$1.8-million will be directed towards upgrading a bridge near Dysart. This is the largest allocation from the RCIF so far, building on previous funding of A$55-million in Round 2 and A$47-million in the fund’s initial round in 2021.
The largest project in this round will be the Isaac Resources Excellence Precinct in Moranbah, with an investment of up to A$40-million. The precinct will focus on innovation and include the construction of new housing for workers, medical students, and retirees. Furthermore, there will be upgrades to sports facilities, community and cultural centers, an airport, botanic gardens, and the Phillips Creek bridge.
Previous rounds of the RCIF were based on voluntary partnerships between the Queensland government and the resources industry, with the industry contributing A$70-million and the state adding A$30-million. Minister for State Development and Infrastructure, Grace Grace emphasized that Queensland’s abundant natural resources belong to everyone in the state, and the wealth generated should benefit all Queenslanders.
The QRC’s call for expanded investment in regional Queensland reflects the importance of ensuring that the communities directly impacted by the coal industry experience tangible improvements in essential infrastructures, such as roads and healthcare services. While the RCIF funding is a step in the right direction, the QRC believes that the government should continue to prioritize these regions to support their development and well-being.
The Queensland government’s decision to allocate A$118.2-million under the RCIF demonstrates a commitment to investing in coal-producing regions. However, the plea from the Queensland Resources Council for further funding for improved roads and health services highlights the ongoing need to address the infrastructure requirements of these communities. By extending their support, the government can ensure that the benefits of the coal industry are felt by all those residing in regional areas.
