The Queensland Government has approved projects to boost local jobs in Mount Isa via the $20 million Mount Isa Transition Fund, ahead of the Glencore’s planned mine closures.
The Mount Isa Transition Fund includes:
- $14.7 million for ten projects, including associated program delivery costs and
- $5.3 million for Mount Isa City Council to implement projects identified through its own economic transition strategy
This forms part of a broader $50 million structural adjustment package, including $30 million to accelerate resources projects in the Northwest Minerals Province.
The projects are expected to create an estimated 483 full-time equivalent construction and ongoing jobs.
Funded projects include upgrades to community infrastructure and sporting facilities, expanded childcare services, the restoration of culturally significant community spaces and building local manufacturing capabilities.
Glencore announced in October that it will close its underground copper mine and copper concentrator in Mount Isa in 2025, along with the nearby Lady Loretta Zinc mine.
Queensland Minister for State Development and Infrastructure, Grace Grace, said Mount Isa is one of Queensland’s strongest and most resilient communities, built on the hard work of its residents.
“Our focus is on supporting affected workers and the wider community by creating new opportunities for good, secure jobs and keeping skilled workers in the region.
“The projects we’re supporting through the Mount Isa Transition Fund will strengthen small business, liveability and help to build a more resilient community.”
Queensland Minister for Resources and Critical Minerals, Scott Stewart, said, “Mount Isa has been the backbone of Queensland’s resources industry for over a century and the Miles Government firmly believes the city will continue to play that role for the next 100 years.
“The structural adjustment package complements the $30 million Mount Isa Mining Acceleration Program, which will expedite mining projects in the North West Minerals Province, creating almost 1,000 long-term jobs.”
Featured image: ChameleonsEye/shutterstock.com
