Mackay basks in incredible 36 per cent resources growth

New data reveals Mackay region leading the way in economic contribution.

A dump truck pulls in to be loaded at a Queensland mine. Picture: Tessa Mapstone

DATA released by the Queensland Resources Council this week demonstrates the huge importance of the resources industry to regional and state economies.

That’s according to Resource Industry Network, which reported the total economic contribution to the Mackay economy had increased an incredible 36 per cent during the past financial year.

It went from a gross regional product of $12.2 billion in 2018-2019 to $16.6 billion for the 2019-2020 financial year.

RIN general manager Dean Kirkwood said this current figure accounted for a whopping 55 per cent of Mackay’s total GRP and contributed directly and indirectly to more than 97,000 full-time jobs in the region.

More stories:

Resource sector injects billions into CQ communities

Miner reports 32% drop in met coal after gas incident

Mining giant’s Bowen Basin sites weather COVID storm

“The QRC data backs up what RIN has been saying all along about the enormous importance that resources play in our region and its contribution to the whole of Queensland,” Mr Kirkwood said.

“This data also shows that $4.5 billion in mining royalties was shared throughout state to the benefit of every Queenslander.

“Our vibrant METS sector plays a massive role in keeping the resources sector operational and is a world leader in productive and efficient mining practices and their role should be acknowledged.”

Mackay, Whitsunday and Mirani were in the top 10 Queensland electorates ranked in order of economic contribution to the state economy in 2019-2020.

Mackay was ranked second in economic contribution to the Queensland economy.

Subscriber benefits:

Your dose of Harry Bruce cartoons

Five ways to get more from your digital subscription

WATCH: Your guide to reading the Daily Mercury online

Originally published as