QRC welcomes Australian Government commitment to resources

THE Queensland Resources Council (QRC) has welcomed the announcement from the Morrison Government of a new Skills Organisation Pilot to focus on the mining industry.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison made the announcement today at the QRC’s annual launch of the economic contribution data for the sector.

QRC Chief Executive Ian Macfarlane said the Australian Government’s recognition of the importance of an ongoing skills base for the resources sector reinforced the value of mining both now and decades into the future.

“The latest figures QRC released today showed that the Queensland resources sector added $74.3 billion to the state’s economy in the last year.  That’s due to the work of the 372,500 people who work in or with the resources sector,” Mr Macfarlane said.

“The benefits are spread right across the state, from Burleigh Heads to Brisbane, and from Maroochydore tor Moranbah.

“We want to make sure those jobs are here to stay through a strong and resilient resources industry.  To do so, we must ensure that Queenslanders have the right skills to make the most of the opportunities in mining, mining technology and associated industries," Mr Macfarlane said.

“The resources industry is committed to providing young Australians with a rewarding, long-term career path.

“The QRC works through the Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy (QMEA) to give Queensland students a taste of the diverse range of opportunities in the sector.  Research shows us that QMEA students are 20 per cent more likely to start studying or employment in engineering and related technologies compared to 11 percent of  students in non-QMEA schools.

“Mining workers don’t need to reskill, they need to keep their skills," he said. “We can’t have a strong Queensland without a strong resources sector, and to ensure the sector’s longevity we need a skilled workforce for the future.

“QRC will work with the Minerals Council of Australia on the new Skills Organisation Pilot in mining and resources to further strengthen the training opportunities for young Queenslanders who want a career in mining – whether it’s onsite or in a control room.”

www.qrc.org.au

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