The Queensland Government has unveiled a $76.4 million investment plan aimed at boosting economic development and job creation in regional areas.
The initiative, known as the Regional Transformation Strategies, will fund 59 projects across four key regions of Queensland, focusing on emerging industries with an emphasis on renewables and decarbonisation.
Premier Steven Miles, along with Deputy Premier and Treasurer Cameron Dick, announced the funding allocation, which is part of the larger $200 million Regional Economic Futures Fund.
Premier Steven Miles said he is focused on creating opportunities in the industries of the future and delivering the clean, reliable and affordable energy that Queenslanders need.
“Regional Queensland has the resources and skills to drive this energy transformation – only my government is backing the regions every step of the way,” he said.
“We’ve already locked in renewable energy and emissions reduction targets to support industry growth and attract greater investment in renewables.”
Miles added that the Regional Transformation Strategies will underpin the state’s low-emissions economy, while supporting economic uplift in regional communities.
“Queensland’s clean energy future matters to me, to the future of our state and to the next generation of clean economy workers who are set to benefit from the decisions we make today,” he said.
The investment is strategically divided among four regions:
- North West Queensland: $22.05 million for 19 projects
- Darling Downs, South West, and South Burnett: $20.03 million for 18 projects
- Central Queensland: $17.7 million for 14 projects
- Greater Whitsunday region: $16.62 million for 8 project
These regions, traditionally known for their primary industries, are now poised to diversify their economies by tapping into new sectors such as critical minerals, renewable energy, hydrogen, and biofuels. The government believes these industries will play a crucial role in a decarbonised future.
A key feature of this initiative is its collaborative approach. The strategies have been co-designed with community leaders, including local governments, to identify economic strengths and industry priorities unique to each region’s geography, resources, and workforce skills.
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