The Queensland Government has declared a $15 million investment to refurbish the Rocklands sulphide processing hub near Cloncurry, aiming to restore copper production and support regional jobs in North West Queensland.
Treasurer and minister for energy David Janetzki said the funding, provided through the Queensland Investment Corporation, will enable Austral Resources to overhaul the mothballed facility and prepare it for a planned mid-2027 restart. Once operational, Rocklands is expected to produce up to 26,300 tonnes of copper annually.
“This investment is about laying the groundwork for long-term copper production that this community can rely on and to ensure Rocklands is fit for the future energy demands Queensland faces,” Janetzki said.
“We are committed to building an energy system that is affordable, reliable and sustainable, and that means investing now in the copper supply chain that makes it all possible. The reopening of Rocklands shows the Crisafulli Government’s support for the landmark CopperString transmission project is restoring confidence in the North West resources sector.”
Minister for finance, trade, employment and training Ros Bates said the restart will deliver “jobs, investment and long-term opportunity” to regional communities. She emphasised that supporting major projects like Rocklands helps lay a foundation for private investment while maintaining fiscal discipline.
“The Crisafulli Government is focused on creating the conditions for private investment to grow, while maintaining discipline in the State’s finances and respecting taxpayers’ money,” Bates said.
“When major projects move again, regional communities benefit. That is how you build a stronger economy and deliver real outcomes for Queensland families.”
Austral Resources chairman David Newling said the government’s backing is pivotal for progression the refurbishment and positioning the company as a significant copper producer in Australia.
“This cornerstone commitment from QIC provides the confidence needed to progress the refurbishment of Rocklands and position Austral as a major regional copper producer,” Newling said.
“Rocklands can play a significant role in supplying the copper needed for Queensland’s energy future. Equally important is making sure that opportunity translates into real outcomes for Cloncurry, through local jobs, local supply chains and long-term economic benefits for the community.”