CENTRAL HIGHLANDS RESOURCES ROUNDTABLE
STATEMENT OF COMMITMENT NOVEMBER 2023
The purpose of this Statement of Commitment is to formalise a framework for collaboration between Central Highlands Resource Roundtable members on projects aimed at driving sustainable and strategic development in the Central Highlands, Queensland.
BACKGROUND The Central Highlands is strategically located within the Bowen Basin, Australia’s largest coal reserve, and is home to 12 operating mines. The region produces over 62 million tonnes of coal annually, which represents 28 percent of Queensland’s total production. The mining sector is the largest employer in the region, with a direct workforce exceeding 6,000, and contributes $9.45 billion to regional output. To foster stronger relations between local government and the resource sector, the Central Highlands Resources Roundtable (CHRR) was established in October 2019. The platform brings together the Central Highlands Regional Council (CHRC), Central Highlands Development Corporation (CHDC) and local mining companies on a periodic basis. Since its inception, the CHRR has played a pivotal role in facilitating networking opportunities and sharing of valuable information among participants.
CH INVEST In 2022, the CHRR launched CH Invest, an initiative aimed at exploring opportunities for collaboration which address shared industry and regional challenges. Hughes et al were engaged to deliver a collaboration options framework and identify future action strategies. The report, CH Invest Concept Study Report, May 2023, detailed six strategies and prioritised 54 initiatives for future collaboration. The following strategies were given the highest priority among members of the CHRR. • Recruitment • Skills Development • Childcare • Housing • Procurement • Regional Investment • CH Practice Establishment
TRANSFORMATION The Central Highlands faces significant challenges in transitioning to a net zero emission future. Effective planning, long-term visioning, and collaboration among stakeholders is key to successfully managing the transformation. A range of opportunities exist for CHRR members to work collaboratively in this space, including impact estimation and analysis, transition planning, economic diversification and enablement, and job creation projects.
Photo credit James Cook University.
COLLABORATION PROJECTS
GUIDING PRINCIPLES
The CHRR aim to collaborate on two to three initiatives at a time, selected from the CH Invest strategies and transformation opportunities. These initiatives may take the form of collaborative projects or collective advocacy efforts.
The undersigned parties agree to adhere to the following principles: 1. We understand that achieving sustainable and strategic growth of the region requires collaboration, dedication, and a long-term perspective. 2. We will actively collaborate and engage in projects that we believe will drive beneficial growth. These include, but are not limited to; recruitment, skills development, childcare, housing, procurement, regional investment, and transformation.
To determine which projects are prioritised, a comprehensive set of criteria will be employed, encompassing feasibility, impact and benefits, alignment with other regional projects and risk considerations, among others.
3. We recognise the importance of collaborating with other parties, including the community, industry, and all levels of government, whenever necessary. 4. We acknowledge that the allocation of resources and funding required for individual projects will be decided on a case-by-case basis.
Once agreed upon, each initiative will undergo thorough scoping and costing to ensure effective planning and resource allocation.
5. We will apply openness, fairness, accountability, and transparency to all activities. By adhering to these principles, we aim to achieve meaningful and sustainable outcomes that benefit the Central Highlands region. Through collaboration and a shared commitment to these principles, we strive to create a positive impact on economic development, job opportunities, and community welfare.
The CHRR will provide strategic guidance and direction throughout the project duration. Regular progress reports and a final report will provide updates on project milestones, financial disbursements, and any challenges encountered. These reports will facilitate effective monitoring, ensuring accountability, and maintaining transparency throughout the project implementation process.
CR KERRY HAYES
PETER DOWLING
BLAIR WHITNEY
MATTHEW LUMB
Mayor
CEO
General Manager, Curragh Mine
General Manager
DAVID SCUTT
SHANE HANSEN
ANN HOUSTON
MIKE PRIESTLY
General Manager
Chief Executive Officer
Head of Environment, Social and Governance
Operations Manager, Yarrabee Mine