The Queensland Government has designated the proposed Eva Copper mine in the state’s northwest as a “large resource project,” in a move to shape local employment, procurement and improve productivity.
The $2.3 billion project, located near Cloncurry and Mount Isa, will now be subject to requirements under the Strong and Sustainable Resource Communities Act 2017, aimed at increasing regional participation in major resource developments.
Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie said the decision was focused on regional economic outcomes, stating the project has the potential to become “Queensland’s biggest copper mine.”
“We want to ensure the communities closest to the project share directly in its success,” Bleijie said.
“Declaring Eva Copper a large resource project strengthens local employment opportunities, supports regional businesses and ensures long term benefits for Mount Isa and Cloncurry.
“Extending the Prescribed Project declaration gives proponents greater certainty and allows the Coordinator-General to continue streamlining approvals so projects can move forward responsibly and efficiently.”
The project’s Prescribed Project status has also been extended by two years to March 2028, allowing the coordinator-general to continue overseeing approvals and coordination. This is designed to streamline assessment processes and provide greater certainty for project proponents.
Queensland coordinator-general Gerard Coggan said the listing “triggers the potential for real long-term benefits for local workers” in the Mount Isa and Cloncurry regions.
“The decisions announced today show the Queensland Government is making sure Eva Copper can benefit local communities as well as generate significant revenue for the state,” Coggan said.
The Eva Copper project, proposed by Harmony Gold Mining Company, is expected to produce around 60,000 tonnes of copper and 19,000 ounces of gold annually over a 15-year mine life.
Construction is projected to support up to 1,000 jobs, with approximately 450 ongoing operational roles.
Local government representatives indicated the designation may strengthen efforts to embed regional supply chain participation. Mount Isa Mayor Peta MacRae said council would continue working with the proponent to secure “economic and community benefits”, while Cloncurry Mayor Greg Campbell emphasised opportunities across “local supply chains.”
“Council is pleased that Eva Copper has been listed as a large resource project under the SSRC Act and we will continue to work with Harmony Gold to ensure our community can prosper,” MacRae said.
“We want to make sure the project not only generates long-term economic benefits throughout our local supply chains but also creates social and community benefits for our residents,” Campbell said.
Harmony Gold chief development officer Johannes Van Heerden said the company welcomed the decision, noting the regulatory framework had supported project progression “through planning and into construction with certainty.”
“As a Tier 1 Mining jurisdiction, Queensland offers coordination support and a stable regulatory framework that has helped Eva Copper move forward,” Van Heerden said.
“We want to deliver long-lasting benefits to Cloncurry, Mount Isa and the region through local jobs, local business opportunities and community investment.
“Our approach, which is already making a positive impact in the early stages of the project, aligns with the Strong and Sustainable Resource Communities framework and we welcome the listing as a large resource project.”
The project has already reached a final investment decision and is progressing environmental approvals.