Enhancing Agricultural Diversification and Regional Economic Development
The Queensland Government has announced a significant investment of $2 million to establish a common-user grain storage facility in the state’s north-western region. This initiative is part of a broader $76 million support package aimed at fostering future industries and economic growth in the area. The facility is one of 59 projects funded by the state government, focusing on emerging industries and regional development.
Alongside the grain storage facility, the Queensland Government has introduced four Regional Economic Strategies to bolster economic development in North West Queensland, Darling Downs, South West and South Burnett, Central Queensland, and the Greater Whitsunday region. These strategies highlight key priorities including agricultural diversification, clean and sustainable energy, sustainable supply chains, tourism, and mineral production.
The North West Queensland strategy identifies opportunities for diversifying agricultural practices, transitioning from traditional cattle grazing to high-value cropping. Potential crops for expansion include sorghum, cotton, sesame, and mungbeans, with a focus on increasing irrigated agriculture. Additionally, the region is exploring more intensive agricultural practices such as cotton gins.
Other notable projects in the region include:
- $750,000 for a new grants program supporting technology-enabled diversification in agribusinesses.
- $400,000 to develop an investment prospectus for the Etheridge Agricultural Precinct.
- $750,000 to support First Nations agriculture, bushfoods, and botanicals.
In Central Queensland, a $1 million project will advance industrial land and transport-precinct planning in Rockhampton. The Greater Whitsunday region will benefit from a $4 million project preparing an infrastructure plan for the Mackay State Development Area – Future Foods Precinct.
Other funded projects include:
- $850,000 for a business case on the South Yaamba Irrigation Development, led by the Rockhampton Regional Council.
- $450,000 for an intermodal hub feasibility study in the Murweh and Maranoa regions.
- $125,000 for investigating biomass and waste for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) feedstock.
Queensland Premier Steven Miles emphasized that these investments are crucial for supporting new industries and driving energy transformation in regional communities. Minister for State Development and Infrastructure Grace Grace highlighted the importance of collaborating with local councils and industries to unlock the benefits of a decarbonized economy.
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