To start the second day of QME’s seminar series, Queensland Minister for Resources and Critical Minerals, Scott Stewart, reflected on the changes he’s seen since attending QME as a child.
“Back in those days, it was all outside and everyone had their three-by-three marquee,” Mr Stewart said.
“How this event has changed and how it has continued to evolve showcases what we do here in Queensland and the great opportunities and capabilities of what we do.”
Mr Stewart said the State Government has a global ambition for Queensland’s resources sector.
“We want Queensland to be a leading supplier and manufacturer of critical minerals and critical mineral technologies.
“This is achievable if we take the right steps today, driven by our resources industry.”
Mr Stewart touched on the Queensland Government’s launch of the Queensland Critical Minerals Prospectus, saying that it is more than just a document.
“It is our ticket to putting Queensland’s burgeoning critical minerals industry on the global stage.”
Mr Stewart said that the Prospectus is a compass pointing to a sustainable and prosperous future for all Queenslanders, positioning the state as a key global supplier of critical minerals.
“59 per cent of jobs in resources are in regional Queensland, which has long been Queensland’s economic powerhouse.”
Mr Stewart also highlighted the Queensland Government’s commitment to the development of a pit-to-product critical minerals industry for Queensland.
“If you don’t manufacture our future then someone else will. A pit-to-product critical minerals industry will prove we can add value to our critical minerals in Queensland.
“Queenslanders aren’t afraid of a challenge. The critical minerals industry faces challenges but also immense opportunities for sustainable growth.”
Featured image: Scott Stewart speaking at QME. Image credit: Prime Creative Media.
