Queensland job losses highlight urgent need for coal royalty reform

It follows a recent announcement that coal royalties are the driver for BHP cutting 750 jobs across its Queensland operations, placing a mine in care and maintenance and reviewing its Future Fit Academy in Mackay.

QRC Chief Executive Officer Janette Hewson said that it is devastating news for those affected. “We feel for the workers, families, and communities impacted by the announcement, particularly those in the regions,” Ms Hewson said.

“QRC warned the previous Labor Government about the consequences of introducing the world’s highest coal royalty rates.

“We have continued to raise industry’s concerns with the LNP Government. However, by accepting bad policy, they have cost jobs for Queenslanders.

“The impact of the royalty tax increase coupled with a drop in coal prices and soaring production costs is simply making it unviable for many coal producers in Queensland to continue operating.

“The announcement confirms that Queensland’s international reputation as a reliable place to invest is at risk.

“Long-term demand for Queensland’s steelmaking coal is strong and with the right policies the industry can continue to underpin our state’s ongoing prosperity and attract more investment to our State.

“We again offer to work with the Queensland Government on behalf of the industry to deliver a coal royalty framework that protects jobs, promotes investment and delivers benefits to all Queenslanders for decades to come. We can strike the right balance.

“Queensland can’t afford to continue with a bad policy that will cost more jobs and weaken our state’s economy.”

Read the article online at: https://www.worldcoal.com/coal/23092025/queensland-job-losses-highlight-urgent-need-for-coal-royalty-reform/