Mackay the resource sector’s regional powerhouse

RIN general manager Dean Kirkwood says the data released by the QRC yesterday demonstrates the huge importance of the resources industry to the regional and state economies.

“The sheer size of the numbers represented in this data is proof that our sector is best positioned to lead the charge on reducing carbon footprints and rising to the challenge of climate change issues.

“As a major anchor to the resources industry, the METS sector is one of our best nurseries of new technologies, practices and innovations to address climate change. The breadth of technical and business knowledge in our sector is phenomenal and is highly sought after from international markets.

“Our METS businesses in particular have demonstrated their commitment to being part of the solution and you don’t have to look too far to find an innovative product or service that features low emission technology and production efficiencies,” Mr Kirkwood said.

The QRC economic contribution data shows that the resources sector supports the jobs of almost 82,500 people in the Mackay region. More than 17,300 of these are direct, full-time resources jobs, which is an increase of 10% on the last financial year.

“Without resources, Queensland’s economy and the living standards of many Queenslanders, would have been severely impacted in recent times,” Mr Kirkwood added.

QRC chief executive Ian Macfarlane said Mackay remained the resources sector’s regional powerhouse with total economic contribution to the Mackay region increasing nine percent to $18 billion, supporting around 73% of the region’s economy.

The Mackay region also contributed to the $2.5 billion in royalties which has been shared across Queensland to help fund vital services in education, roads, health, and law and order.

When it comes to Queensland, the total spend by commodity shows that coal was leading the way on 70% followed by metals, then oil and gas.

*ENDS*

Links to Queensland Resources Council economic contribution data:
MACKAY - https://www.qrc.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Mackay-Region-2021.pdf
QUEENSLAND - https://www.qrc.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Queensland-Economic-Contribution-2021.pdf
REPORT - https://www.qrc.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Economic-Impact-of-Resources-Sector-on-Qld-Economy-2020-21-Exec-Summary-FInal.pdf

For further information or to request an interview, please contact:
Communications Manager - Jodie Thompson
P: 07 4952 4184  |  M: 0408 638 968
Email: comms@rin.org.au