“Long term economic boost”: New mining venture earmarked as a priority project

A rock mining project in North West Queensland, expected to generate hundreds of jobs and $1.4billion in economic value, has been put on the fast track by the deputy premier.

The Century Mine processing plant.

A phosphate rock project in North West Queensland is expected to generate hundreds of jobs and $1.4 billion in economic value after being given the green light by the state government.

A joint venture between Australian company North West Phosphate Limited (NWP) and Sibanye-Stillwater (SSW), PhosOne will see phosphate rock concentrate grown locally and used for fertiliser within the agricultural industry.

This venture has since been declared a prescribed project by the state government, meaning the approval process will be streamlined.

The project is expected to generate $1.4 billion in economic value and create 240 ongoing and 490 construction jobs in the North West.

Phosphate ore will be mined from NWP’s new $150 million Paradise South mine, 130km northwest of Mount Isa, before being transported to Century mine for processing.

Additional processing of the concentrate will then occur at the Port of Karumba, before the phosphate rock concentrate is shipped to trade partners.

The mine development is being expedited, following funding of $5.77 million from the Mount Isa Mining Acceleration Program.

Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning, Jarrod Bleijie said the PhosOne project could generate significant jobs and economic development for the North West.

“The Crisafulli Government is committed to delivering new opportunities for the North West, and expanding mining in our regions,” Deputy Premier Bleijie said.

“Designating this venture as a prescribed project highlights its significance for the region and starts the comprehensive approval process.

“We are committed to delivering secure jobs and opportunities, growing the industries that keep our regions strong.”

Assistant Minister for Primary Industry Development, Water and Western Queensland, Sean Dillion, said this declaration would deliver more economic development opportunities in regional Queensland.

The Century Mine processing plant.

“Our resources and agricultural industries are a powerhouse for Queensland’s economy and this project has the potential to deliver for both – more domestically manufactured fertiliser and more mining development,” Mr Dillion said.

While Queensland Coordinator-General Gerard Coggan said it was vital to create avenues of support for different sectors through critical mineral expansion and production.

“Ensuring Queensland continues to be set up for success through projects that balance social and economic needs is central to the Office of the Coordinator General,” Mr Coggan said.

Managing Director of North West Phosphate John Cotter, who is an LNP member, said PhosOne has the “potential to deliver a stable, long-term economic boost for the North West Minerals Province”.

“This declaration supports the project’s continued development and planning, and recognises the long-term strategic value a project like PhosOne could offer in terms of securing phosphate supply, supporting regional employment, and contributing to domestic fertiliser production,” Mr Cotter said.

Originally published as “Long term economic boost”: New mining venture earmarked as a priority project