The Australian federal and Queensland governments have taken the next step towards securing a long-term future for North West Queensland’s copper industry, with the Mount Isa Transformation Study now underway.
A consortium led by CRU International (Australia) Pty Ltd has been appointed to lead the comprehensive study. The group will consult with key stakeholders, including industry figures, investors, local councils, workers, and community members, to map the entire copper value chain across the North West Minerals Province, stretching from Mount Isa to Townsville.
The study will assess the region’s long-term industrial capability. By evaluating opportunities beyond the current support period, the final report, which is due to the government by the end of 2026, aims to position the region for a more diverse and resilient economic future.
The study’s commencement coincides with Glencore announcing works are set to begin on rebricking the Mount Isa Copper Smelter, alongside the completion of major maintenance funded by the rescue package.
Queensland Minister for Natural Resources and Mines, Dale Last, said the study is a clear sign of the state government’s commitment to future-proofing the region.
“This is about securing the long-term future of North West Queensland and the thousands of jobs and local communities that depend on it,” Last said.
“The study will investigate future opportunities across the entire copper value chain from the Mount Isa Copper Smelter to the Townsville port and refinery and all the communities in between.”
Federal Minister for Industry and Innovation and Minister for Science Senator Tim Ayres said the study would strengthen regional growth.
“This is a key milestone under the joint Commonwealth–Queensland support package to secure the future of the Mount Isa Copper Smelter and strengthen long‑term industrial capability across the region,” Ayres said.
“In a more volatile global environment, this work will help strengthen Australia’s resilience, regional growth, and international competitiveness.”
