Moves to strengthen Queensland’s resources sector by encouraging investment and cutting red tape have been endorsed by an independent industry survey.
Minister for Natural Resources and Mines Andrew Cripps welcomed the results of the Fraser Institute Annual Survey of Mining Companies 2013 and said it showed the Government was delivering on its election promises.
“We promised at the election to grow the resources sector as one of the four pillars of the economy and this survey shows industry confidence in Queensland is improving,” Mr Cripps said.
“The previous Labor government ignored the resources sector, took it for granted and it suffered as a result.
“We promised to streamline policies and reduce red tape to restore the reputation of Queensland as a world leader in the resources sector and this report shows our commitment and our activities are delivering positive outcomes.
“Mining is now a larger employer of full-time workers in Queensland than both the agricultural or hospitality sectors, which highlights the importance of the sector to our state’s economic growth.
“The survey shows industry’s growing confidence in the government’s policies, with Queensland reaching a five year high score, and ranking 24th out of 112 jurisdictions, up eight positions from the previous year, for prospective investment.
“I am pleased to see our policies receive strong endorsements, with one company manager describing Queensland’s Land Access and Strategic Cropping Land policy review as “exemplary policy”.
“Queensland’s best practice mineral potential has also gained ground under this government, with the state ranking 18th out of 112 jurisdictions, while Queensland’s investment attractiveness is on the rise, now ranking 21st out of 112 jurisdictions.”
Mr Cripps said between 83 and 90 per cent of companies believed Queensland’s regulation reforms, best practices and political stability supported investment decisions in the resources sector.
“The Newman Government has made it very clear that Queensland’s resources sector is open for business and we are keen to attract and foster new industries,” he said.
“We have established an environment where companies can now feel confident investing in Queensland again following the failures of the previous Labor Government.
“This supporting feedback from industry shows we are delivering on our commitments to supercharge the economy and create jobs and opportunities for Queensland communities, particularly rural and regional communities.”
