Macfarlane launched the ninth annual economic contribution report at the Port of Brisbane with Senator Matt Canavan, Minister for Resources and Northern Australia.
Commenting on Queensland’s coal sector, Macfarlane said: “It was more good news for coal with total employment rising 14% to 215 656…Coal was the largest overall contributor accounting for 69% of economic contributions, followed by metals at 15% and oil and gas at 13%. This report illustrates international markets see Queensland coal as an essential ingredient in steel making and energy production. It shows the world wants our bauxite, copper, gold, silver and zinc for electric vehicles, renewable energy and smart phones while our gas is feeding the energy needs of Asia and beyond.”