In November 2015, the Queensland Government established a Taskforce to investigate the issues and opportunities impacting the Province and advise on a way forward for the region’s future. 

Resources Minister Dr Anthony Lynham said the strategic blueprint builds on the work of the Taskforce and sets out a platform for collaboration with federal and local governments, business, industry, and communities “to support a smooth transition to a stronger and more diversified economy in the longer term, leveraging existing economic and community strengths.”

He says the government will facilitate resources sector development, diversify the regional economy and creating employment opportunities, and working with businesses, communities and other partners to continue to deliver integrated and appropriate services. 

The report says the NWMP is one of the world’s richest mineral producing regions and has delivered significant economic benefits to the state for decades.

However, the significance of the mining industry and its remote geographic location has meant it has been greatly exposed to fluctuating commodity prices.

The area has also has a young population, a high indigenous population and high unemployment rates, particularly for Indigenous people.

Importantly the report identifies that non-completion of schooling impacts significantly on options for future training and pathways to employment. 

See our website for ongoing coverage and explanation of what is in this important new document.

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I will be away from Mount Isa from Thursday to Tuesday.

I don’t mind working long and hard to give Mount Isa and the North West the best newspaper it deserves but I do need a break from time to time so I’m having one of my periodic work “de-toxes” at Brisbane and catching up with friends and family.

Catch you next week – Derek Barry