Queensland is set to bolster its mining equipment, technology, and services (METS) sector with over $2.6 million in funding aimed at driving innovation and sustainability in the state’s mining industry.
The funding, provided through the METS Collaborative Project Fund, invites businesses, research bodies, government agencies, and industry groups to collaborate on projects addressing environmental issues, emissions management, renewable energy, and safety.
The METS sector contributes $7 billion in revenue to Queensland’s economy and is expected to play a crucial role as the world transitions to cleaner and greener power sources.
The target of net zero emissions by 2050 will increase the demand for critical minerals, presenting new investment opportunities for Queensland’s METS sector.
QLD Minister for State Development and Infrastructure, Grace Grace, highlighted the importance of bringing together the best minds in business and research to address the complex challenges facing the METS sector.
“Our Energy and Jobs Plan aims to grow our renewable energy supply chains in Queensland, the Queensland Battery Strategy aims to grow Queensland’s battery value chain and Queensland’s METS companies will be integral in the delivery of these plans as Queensland transitions to a net zero emissions future that supports jobs, industries, communities, and our environment,” said Grace.
The funding aims to unlock new industry opportunities and commercial frontiers for Queensland while supporting the state’s transition to renewable energies and improving mine site safety.
QLD Minister for Resources and Critical Minerals, Scott Stewart, emphasised Queensland’s cutting-edge METS sector and how the funding will allow businesses to innovate even further.
“We’re already backing the future of the resources industry in Mackay through our $5.7 million investment in the Mackay Resources Centre of Excellence.
“The state-of-the-art centre will include a pilot critical minerals processing with the concept design launched earlier this year,” said Stewart.
The funding aligns with the state’s broader initiatives, such as the Energy and Jobs Plan and the Queensland Battery Strategy, which aim to support Queensland’s transition to a net zero emissions future.
Assistant Minister for State Development and Infrastructure, Julieanne Gilbert, highlighted the significance of Mackay’s Resources Centre of Excellence in advancing the METS sector.
She stated that the centre serves as a hub for resource-related innovation and economic development, further solidifying Queensland’s position as a world-leading centre for excellence in the sector.
The $2.67 million METS Collaboration Project Fund is part of the Queensland government’s broader efforts to support innovation and sustainability in the resources industry.
Funding applications are now open and will close on 17 May 2023.
For more information on grants and how to apply, visit www.statedevelopment.qld.gov.au/industry/critical-industry-support/mets.
