A transformation study is underway in north west Queensland in an effort to unlock greater opportunities for the region’s copper supply chain, helping to boost long-term industrial capabilities.
The study will be led by CRU International, which will engage stakeholders including industry, investors, workers and community to assess the full copper value chain across the state’s north west minerals province, running from Mt Isa to Townsville.
Specific areas of focus will be the end-to-end copper value chain in the region as well as earmarking long-term opportunities for facilities, workers and industry to position the region for a more diverse and resilient future.
The final report will be provided to government by the end of 2026.
The study is described as a key milestone under the joint Queensland-Commonwealth support package for the Mt Isa copper smelter and Townsville copper refinery and will inform government and industry decision-making.
“This is about securing the long-term future of north west Queensland and the thousands of jobs and local communities that depend on it,” Minister for Natural Resources and Mines Dale Last said in a statement.
“The study will investigate future opportunities across the entire copper value chain from the Mount Isa Copper Smelter to the Townsville port and refinery and all the communities in between.
“This is about building community confidence, growing local industry, bolstering our sovereign capability and making sure this region stands strong for decades to come.”
The consortium carrying out the transformation study is led by CRU International and includes Core Resources, RangeX Projects & Partners, Wall Planning Group and Resources Law Network.
