Boosting resources opportunities boosts Indigenous staff

QUEENSLAND Resources Council has welcomed the extended commitment from the Department of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships  to work with QRC and its members to boost employment opportunities for Indigenous Queenslanders.

“Our members, whether they are coal, metal and gas explorers and producers or their suppliers, are providing more opportunities for Indigenous Queenslanders, not just for a job in resources, but for a fulfilling career,” QRC chief executive Ian Macfarlane said.

He said the department’s extended commitment to the partnership, first forged 12 years ago, would help ensure the resources sector continued to be a leader in providing opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders.  

“The proportion of Indigenous Queenslanders working in the resources sector is on par with the proportion of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders living in Queensland – 4 percent," Mr Macfarlane said.

“It’s important that we have the continued support of the Queensland Government, and the department.  I welcome the extended commitment and QRC looks forward to continuing to build upon the proud record."

Mr Macfarlane said the annual QRC Indigenous Awards would be held on November 30. The awards celebrate the contribution of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to the Queensland resources sector and set up ongoing networking and career opportunities for applicants and award winners.

www.qrc.org.au

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