The critical minerals deal signed with US president Donald Trump this month presents a “once-in-a-generation” opportunity for Queensland, according to the Premier.
David Crisafulli revealed on Sunday the state government had been working on a framework to attract investment through the $8.5 billion bilateral agreement.
“I haven’t spoken about this publicly, but on the back of the deal between the Prime Minister and the President, I see a once in a generation opportunity,” he said.
Queensland Premier David Crisafulli speaks at parliament house earlier this year. Credit: Dominic Lorrimer
“We will be shortly releasing our plan to make sure that we don’t just get our fair share, but a little bit more.”
Crisafulli did not say how the plan would work, but added the state had vast reserves of multiple commodities in high demand.
“I look at some of the opportunities … where I think we might be the first cab off the rank,” he said.
Anthony Albanese and Donald Trump shake hands after signing the $8.5 billion rare earth minerals agreement. Credit: Getty
“I think that can genuinely be an opportunity for this state, not just for taxpayers but also for working people.”
The comments came in response to questions about the existing coal royalty scheme, which has attracted pushback from some conservatives throughout the year. Crisafulli again promised not to alter the tax.
“In the end, our coal is the best in the world,” he said.
“The environmental standards and the workers’ rights that people have in the industry also makes our coal a desirable commodity on the world stage.
“I went to Japan and India to say to those very mineral thirsty nations ‘were open for business,’ and you’ll be hearing more about that.”
The premier was speaking alongside his deputy Jarrod Bleijie at the G’day Little Queenslanders event in North Brisbane on Sunday, marking one year since his government was elected.
Labor opposition leader Steven Miles and his deputy Cameron Dick were also in attendance.
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