The Queensland Government has unveiled a $1.3 billion investment to advance the construction of the CopperString 2032.
The investment will enable the construction to commence in mid-2024, marking a significant step in unlocking the North West Minerals Province and North Queensland’s renewable energy potential.
“We are proud to invest in this historic project, which will connect $500 billion in critical minerals with the largest renewable energy zone on the east coast of Australia unlocking the next mining boom and jobs across the North West Minerals Province and North Queensland,” Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said.
Treasurer Cameron Dick stated that the funding will deliver jobs, growth, and innovation.
“We are backing this project because we believe in the vision and the value it will create for North Queenslanders, now and for decades to come,” Treasurer Dick added.
The funding will enable Powerlink, along with UGL and CPB Contractors, to conduct comprehensive design, engineering, and environmental assessments.
Powerlink Chief Executive Paul Simshauser said the funding is a crucial step for obtaining the necessary planning, design, and environmental approvals for the project.
“We look forward to working closely with our construction partners, local suppliers and communities to make this project a reality and deliver long-term benefits for North Queensland,” he noted.
The project is requesting responses to tenders from local North Queensland companies.
According to the State Government, the project includes securing easements, establishing 100 permanent jobs, procuring transmission equipment, conducting site investigations, and advancing site development works, including camps and access works.
“Every element of this project will be delivered in compliance with our Buy Queensland procurement policy, ensuring as much of this investment circulates throughout North Queensland, building an even more resilient economy,” Minister for Resources and Townsville MP Scott Stewart said.
The investment is part of the estimated $5 billion budget to deliver the CopperString 2032 project.
It builds on over 40 work packages made available for Expression of Interest. Engineering, construction, environmental management, logistics, camp construction, haulage, and communications are among the activities and services covered by the packages.
The CopperString 2032 project will also provide infrastructure for super-fast internet speeds in the North West, with early works starting immediately and communities along the Flinders Highway expected to receive early access by next year.
“Copperstring 2032 brings with it a huge pipeline of jobs and business opportunities,” Mundingburra MP Les Walker said.
“We are powering ahead with this transformational project, to the benefit of North Queenslanders,” he added.
“I’m proud to be part of the Palaszczuk Government that is delivering for the city which is going from strength to strength,” Thuringowa MP Aaron Harper commented.
