Unlock the North | 2023 State & Federal Budget Submission

TOWNSVILLE NORTH QUEENSL AND

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2023 State & Federal Budget Submission

ABORIGINAL SHIRE COUNCIL

Townsville Enterprise pays its deepest respects to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the traditional custodians of the land in Australia, and recognise their continuing connection to land, water and culture.

We pay respect to Elders past, present and emerging.

We acknowledge the stories, traditions and living cultures of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and commit to fostering a culture of learning from and working with First Nations peoples in the spirit of reconciliation and access to justice.

FOREWORD

Townsville is the largest city in North Queensland and encompasses five major regional centres: Townsville, Charters Towers, Burdekin, Palm Island and Hinchinbrook.

As the global demand for mineral products processed with low or zero emissions continues to grow, the Townsville North Queensland region is well placed to establish high-value supply chains to customers around the world - provided we receive Government infrastructure support to establish these industries.

The region contributes over $33 billion annually to the Queensland economy and is home to nearly 240,000 people. The region has one of the most diverse economic bases in Australia and enjoys a stunning natural environment, providing tourism growth opportunities and an attractive lifestyle for its residents.

The trend toward decarbonisation continues to accelerate in markets around the world, including here in Australia, with recent emissions control legislation passing parliament for the first time.

Over the last three years, the region has navigated its way through the impacts of the global pandemic with strong and robust economic growth. As we look toward the future, we are seeing a new series of challenges that our attention must turn to.

The solutions to the climate crisis and foundations for the green energy revolution are being established here in regional Australia, and we want Government partnerships to capture these once-in-a-generation opportunities and secure the future of our region.

Global geopolitics, natural disasters, and economic cycles have pushed inflation into the public consciousness for the first time in a decade. Nation-wide trends toward full employment and a lack of affordable housing are compounding some inflationary issues, however, North Queensland’s strong jobs market and highly affordable real estate market make us well-placed to weather these challenges.

Townsville Enterprise’s role is to tell the story of the linkages across North Queensland’s assets and what the opportunities can be for our region, our state, and the country, when these strengths are leveraged. With targeted support, we have the capacity to deliver the jobs, sovereignty, and economic prosperity critical to Queensland and Australia’s growth and future resilience.

The economic diversity and the strategic location of Townsville means North Queensland is well-placed for future growth.

The region boasts strengths in agriculture in the Burdekin and Hinchinbrook, high-value mining and mineral hubs for renewable energy to the west from Charters Towers and beyond, and the largest breeding ground for cattle in the country.

Enabling private investment will allow the North to continue to play a leading role in the nation’s economic development.

With our competitive advantages in green energy, critical minerals, and Pacific development opportunities, our region is destined for growth.

Additionally, Townsville, as Australia’s largest Garrison city is home to the nation’s largest Defence base. It is the epicentre of world-class research and science, and services 80% of Northern Australia’s population with general cargo through the Port of Townsville.

The region is recognised as having globally significant potential as a green hydrogen and green industrial production hub. The State Government’s recent committment to acquire and build CopperString 2032 will be crucial to connect world-leading renewable energy zones to the National Electricity Grid and provide affordable and reliable energy to the increasingly important North West Minerals Province.

For Townsville North Queensland to reach its full economic and social potential there are critical challenges that must be addressed. These include developing the critical infrastructure emerging industries are dependent on and finding solutions to the workforce and affordable housing shortages.

Townsville Enterprise, together with its regional councils and the business community is making a strong case for targeted investment and policy support to ensure the North can continue to play a leading role in driving the nation’s recovery and future resilience.

Unlock the North has been developed to promote opportunity and the important role North Queensland plays in the economic recovery of Queensland and Australia.

CR JENNY HILL

CR LYN MCLAUGHLIN

CR FRANK BEVERIDGE

CR RAMON JAYO

CR MISLAM SAM

Townsville City Council

Burdekin Shire Council

Charters Towers Regional Council

Hinchinbrook Shire Council

Palm Island Aboriginal Shire Council

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ADVOCACY HIGHLIGHTS

Townsville Enterprise and regional councils thank the State and Federal Governments for supporting growth and economic opportunity in the North Queensland region.

Targeted government investment in regional Queensland allows Townsville North Queensland to secure its future.

COPPERSTRING 2032 For the first time in Australia’s history, the North West Minerals Province will be connected to the National Electricity Grid.

untapped minerals unlocked

33GW

of renewable energy unleashed

TOWNSVILLE’S LANSDOWN ECO-INDUSTRIAL PRECINCT

NQ SPARK SOLDIER SIMULATOR

Australia’s first environmentally sustainable, advanced manufacturing, processing and technology precinct powered by locally generated renewable energy.

NQ Spark will be equipped with cutting-edge technology systems and training research facilities.

5,122

Construction Jobs

6,015

Permanent Jobs

9,120 Indirect Jobs

834

Construction Jobs

555

Permanent Jobs

572

Indirect Jobs

ACTIVATING TOWNSVILLE’S NORTH QUEENSLAND HYDROGEN INDUSTRY

REGENAQUA BURDEKIN

NQH2 provides a collaborative hydrogen industry ecosystem to generate more jobs, advanced manufacturing and is a catalyst for growth of small business capability and skills in the renewables sector and other flow on industries.

A world-first facility set to reshape the wastewater treatment landscape with breakthrough macroalgal technology that is natural and carbon-free. The facility removes harmful nutrients before it enters waterways and pollutes the Great Barrier Reef.

$55M

Economic Impact

4

$740B

150

Construction Jobs

TOWNSVILLE NORTH QUEENSLAND

57

Supply Chain Jobs

200

Construction Jobs

370

Permanent Jobs

JCU Technology

TOWNSVILLE NORTH QUEENSLAND THE GATEWAY TO NORTHERN AUSTRALIA

AFFORDABLE WATER & AGRICULTURE

AFFORDABLE GREEN POWER & INDUSTRY

INNOVATION & SKILLS

Long-term water security

New critical mineral processing

Youngest city in Australia

Abundant critical mineral reserves Mining growth

New water infrastructure Expansion of agricultural land Recycling of water for new industries

Common user infrastructure Hydrogen capability

High-value cropping

Skilled workforce Leading health, research and education facilities to foster collaboration and new industries Australian Institute of Marine Science

Decarbonisation of NQ industries

Smart technology

Eco industrial corridors Port expansion

DEFENCE

VISITOR ECONOMY & LIVEABILITY

Largest defence base

Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority

Singapore military training initiative

Eco-tourism Major events

Magnetic Island

Pacific step up

International flights

Museum of Underwater Art

Indigenous tourism

Development of defence industries in the north

WORKFORCE, AFFORDABLE HOUSING & BUSINESS ENABLERS Housing Fund, Workforce Attraction and Housing Campaign, Insurance and Banking Support

50%

OF NORTHERN AUSTRALIA’S WORKFORCE IS IN NORTH QUEENSLAND

80%

OF GENERAL CARGO FOR NORTHERN AUSTRALIA THROUGH PORT OF TOWNSVILLE

ANNUAL ECONOMIC OUTPUT OF

$32.4 BILLION 2023 STATE AND FEDERAL BUDGET SUBMISSION

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Transforming our region ENABLING INVESTMENT NEEDS

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TOWNSVILLE NORTH QUEENSLAND

2023 STATE AND FEDERAL BUDGET SUBMISSION

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01 DEFENCE

DRIVING FORCE OF NORTHERN AUSTRALIA & NET ZERO ECONOMY

North Queensalnd Key to Unlock the North ................ 11 Port Expansion Project - Stage 2...................................... 12 Mount Isa to Townsville Supply Chain ........................... 14

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Smith and Houston Strategic Review .............................. 16 Joint Amphibious Force Capability................................... 17

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CopperString 2.0.................................................................. 19 Supporting the North’s Hydrogen Potential .................. 20 Hells Gates Pumped Storage Hydro Scheme ................. 21

Ayr Industrial Estate Expansion ....................................... 23 Charters Towers Enterprise Precinct .............................. 23

TOWNSVILLE NORTH QUEENSLAND

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AFFORDABLE GREEN POWER & HYDROGEN

ENABLING MANUFACTURING 22

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10

04

WATER & SOLVING THE GLOBAL FOOD CRISIS

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RegenAqua Hinchinbrook ................................................. 25 Enhancing the Burdekin River System ............................ 26

06 HEALTH, KNOWLEDGE & RESEARCH

WORKFORCE, AFFORDABLE HOUSING & BUSINESS ENABLERS

Housing Fund ...................................................................... 29 Workforce Attraction and Housing Campaign .............. 30 Business Enablers ............................................................... 32

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Securing NQ’s Global Leadership in Aquaculture ......... 35 TropiQ ................................................................................... 36 Maternity and Renal Redevelopment .............................37 First Nation’s Health and Social Support Facility ..........38 Building Healthy Brains .....................................................39

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07

LIVEABILITY & VISITOR ECONOMY

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Paluma and Wallaman Trail .............................................. 41 Magnetic Island Tourism Development ......................... 42 North Australia Arts Precinct ........................................... 44 Townsville City Deal............................................................ 45

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DRIVING FORCE OF NORTHERN AUSTRALIA & NET ZERO ECONOMY Townsville is home to the largest population base in Northern Australia and boasts one of the Australia’s most diverse economies with no sector making up more than 15%.

With more than $20 billion in infrastructure projects underway in the region, coupled with growth in tourism visitation and more than $740 billion worth of unmined resources along the North West Queensland corridor, Townsville North Queensland is bursting with potential for future growth and development.

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TOWNSVILLE NORTH QUEENSLAND

DRIVING FORCE OF NORTHERN AUSTRALIA

TOWNSVILLE NORTH QUEENSLAND KEY TO UNLOCK THE NORTH BURSTING WITH POTENTIAL FOR GROWTH

WHAT WE NEED

Townsville is the unofficial capital of North Queensland, home to the largest population base in Northern Australia and boasts one of Australia’s most diverse economies with no sector making up more than 15%.

The region is proud of its economic heritage founded on a strong base of agriculture and resources, Australia’s largest military base, a port with a broad-based trade profile and a world-leading university.

To this foundation, the region continues to add growing strengths in industries including tourism, research and education, renewables and professional services. There are more than $20 billion in infrastructure projects underway in the region, coupled with more than 122,000 hectares of irrigated land primed for agriculture, growth in tourism visitation, and more than $740 billion worth of known untapped resources within the North and North West region. Townsville North Queensland is bursting with potential for future growth and development.

TOWNSVILLE REGION IS THE KEY TO UNLOCK THE NORTH:

T ownsville North Queensland established as the world leading critical mineral, battery and green energy manufacturing hub by enabling private sector investments.

A lignment of the State and Federal Government policies and Northern Australia development targets.

S treamlined approval processes between State and Federal Governments.

Investment into housing to meet future demand.

A ffordable power and to build the 1,100km transmission line from Townsville to Mount Isa. L ong-term water security through new infrastructure for population and industry growth.

M edium and long-term workforce forecast and implementation strategy.

E nabling infrastructure: roads and ports; supply chain logistics; digital connectivity; education and training; and Indigenous enterprise.

80% of Northern Australia’s population catchment centre (eight hour radius).

Existing supply chain infrastructure investments and global connectivity.

The world’s best solar and wind resources.

Australia’s largest mineral deposit west of Townsville which will be unlocked by CopperString.

A n articulate policy position and support for the development of Northern Australia’s green energy and industry potential.

S ustainable tourism funding to continue to grow visitor economy and support liveability in the region.

Australia’s largest Defence base.

Home of Northern Australia’s largest university, James Cook University.

Headquarters for the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority and the home of the Australian Institute of Marine Science.

Townsville Enterprise and its regional councils support the Albanese Government’s vision for Northern Australia:

No other region of comparable size has connection into the future prosperity of the Australilan nation as Townsville.

BERNARD SALT LEADING AUSTRALIAN ECONOMIST

“Nation-building for transformative growth and Net Zero future.”

With targeted investment in infrastructure and resource projects that will unlock enormous economic benefit for Australia’s northern regions and drive the State and the nation’s transition towards a Net Zero economy.

State Funding

Federal Funding

State and/or Federal

Funding N/A

2023 STATE AND FEDERAL BUDGET SUBMISSION

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DRIVING FORCE OF NORTHERN AUSTRALIA

PORT EXPANSION PROJECT - STAGE 2 GROWTH OPPORTUNITY

158 hectares and see the construction of new port infrastructure.

The $1.6 billion Port Expansion Project (PEP) is a long-term development plan for the Port of Townsville - Northern Australia’s largest multi-cargo port.

Stage 2 of the PEP requires the remainder of the rock wall for the PEP footprint to be built and a detailed business case for future development to be undertaken to ensure the PEP delivers optimal outcomes for a multitude of port users and the growth of the North.

The project comprises channel widening (currently underway), land reclamation, and the development of a new outer harbour, wharves, and associated infrastructure.

The Port of Townsville facilitates the trade of more than 30 commodities, worth more than $8 billion per annum on global markets. This figure is projected to increase three-fold by 2050, creating enormous economic prosperity and generating significant employment opportunities for the region.

BACKGROUND: Stage 1 of the Port Expansion Project is the $232 million Channel Upgrade Project which will deliver a wider shipping channel and a 62 hectare port reclamation area. The Channel Upgrade Project is currently on track for completion in 2024. Once complete, larger commercial, cruise and defence vessels (up to 300m long) will be able to access the Port to service our region’s existing and emerging industries and growing trade demands.

Future Stages of the PEP will increase the reclamation area to

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TOWNSVILLE NORTH QUEENSLAND

BENEFITS: The Port Expansion Project has the potential to provide common user facilities and/or the exclusive use of vital port infrastructure for a multitude of priority projects for the north, including: Australian Defence Forward Mounting Base Capability.

Specifically accommodating future Army amphibious base requirements and new Navy facilities to support enhanced strategic projection in the Asia Pacific Region.

Enabling growth in the supply chain from the North West Minerals Province through to the world. There has been in increase in potential for new trade through the port supported by developments and growth in: D emand for critical minerals to support the decarbonisation effort.

Demand for fertiliser products.

DRIVING FORCE OF NORTHERN AUSTRALIA

Development of the Landsdown Eco-Industrial Precinct.

T he storage and export of green hydrogen from proponents of the NQH2 Hydrogen Consortium.

Additionally, the PEP will provide enhanced capacity to meet the growing demand of existing trade including mining, agriculture, motor vehicles and project cargo, fuel and bulk liquids, containerised goods, Defence and cruise.

Building the remainder of the rock wall for the PEP footprint will enable the Port to develop new berths in the outer harbour and respond to the strong demand for Port access in a timely manner. This key piece of infrastructure is critical to creating a safe harbour for access and forms part of the next logical step in the development of the Port.

The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIS) for the Port Expansion Project was assessed and approved with conditions by the Australian Government on 5 February, 2018.

Stage 1 of the project was funded through the Townsville City Deal with contribution from State and Federal Governments as well as the Port of Townsville.

Stage 2 of the project is being proposed now so it can commence prior to the completion of Stage 1.

WHAT WE NEED

STATUS: The Port Expansion Project has been through rigorous environment impact assessments by both the Queensland and Australian Governments in accordance with legislation over the course of a decade before it was granted approval.

This provides certainty that the environmental impacts have been fully considered and will be controlled through conditions on development.

State Funding

Federal Funding

State and/or Federal

Funding N/A

$100 million from State or Federal Government for the Rock Wall and $10 million Port Expansion Project Business Case.

C o-funding is requested to progress the Rock Wall and Business Case in a timely fashion to benefit a multitude of users.

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DRIVING FORCE OF NORTHERN AUSTRALIA

MOUNT ISA TO TOWNSVILLE SUPPLY CHAIN GROWTH OPPORTUNITY

THE SOLUTION:

The Mount Isa to Townsville Rail Line is a critical piece of freight infrastructure supporting mining, agricultural and manufacturing industries in North and North West Queensland, and servicing the freight needs of communities across the region.

Townsville North Queensland services the North West Minerals Province (NWMP) as well as the broader Mount Isa to Townsville Economic Development Zone (MITEZ). The NWMP is one of the world’s richest mineral producing areas containing copper, lead and zinc, as well as major silver and phosphate deposits and strong rare earth potential.

RAIL USE HAS DECREASED IN RECENT YEARS

Railing of product on the Mount Isa to Townsville Rail Line has decreased in recent years with increased trucking of product. A lack of reinvestment in the rail line has resulted in inefficiencies of rail line speed and other restrictions. Lack of passing loops, and lack of multi-user terminals for loading and unloading of product has led to a modal shift of product to road transport.

This modal shift places greater pressure and cost onto the road network and has resulted in inefficiencies in the logistical supply chain.

There is a need to develop a competitive supply chain for agriculture and mining products from Mount Isa to Townsville Port. This is vitally important, as reducing the cost and capacity issues of the supply chain will assist to unlock the potential of the Mount Isa to Townsville corridor development.

In addition to this, direct access into the Port from the Mount Isa and North Coast lines will significantly improve efficiencies.

1,035

87

PERMANENT ONGOING JOBS

2,484 INDIRECT JOBS

WHAT WE NEED

TEARC TEARC (Townsville Eastern Access Rail Corridor) will prevent significant cost/wastage through stopping, breaking and slowing trains delivering to the Port.

The Port expansion is now underway and will require new rail alignment on the Eastern side of the Port and provide a “blank canvas” for efficient transport corridors such as TEARC. Capital investment to TEARC must not burden existing users who are needed to support the implementation or hinder new tonnes with higher costs due to capital charges.

TEARC would also require reconfiguration of rail roads in the Port Precinct which can present significant opportunities to enable further efficiency investments.

Product from the NWMP is railed and trucked to the Port of Townsville for export to global markets.

CONSTRUCTION JOBS

Highest priority needs to give to enabling rail to deliver products as close to end point as possible and limit re-handle and storage.

Subsidy A commitment to reviewing the current subsidy for the below rail component is necessary to ensure that it is achieving the objective that it is set out to do, which is to reduce input costs and encourage more tonnes on the line. Feedback from users indicates that a competitive and efficient supply chain is an important consideration in future expansion projects.

Investment A commitment to reinvest in rail and road infrastructure from Mount Isa to Townsville over the next five years, starting with the fast-tracking of the Queensland Rail re-sleepering program. In addition to this, any increases in North West Minerals Province government royalty income (using 20192020 financial year as a base) should be reinvested into infrastructure in this corridor. This will create a partnership between industry and government with aligned growth objectives.

Plan A 10-year updated Master Plan should be published for the Mount Isa to Townsville Rail Line detailing the planned investments to meet forecast demand. The key indicators should be monitored to ensure the supply chain is resilient, competitive and efficient in supporting growth in mining and agriculture sectors in North and North West Queensland.

Review and update TEARC business case in light of new trade outlook and approved Port Expansion.

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TOWNSVILLE NORTH QUEENSLAND

State Funding

Federal Funding

State and/or Federal

Funding N/A

02

DEFENCE Australia’s strategic environment is rapidly evolving as the IndoPacific region transitions to the centre of global economic and military power.

Major power competition, coercion and the possibility of foreign military bases in the Southwest Pacific underscore the importance of our near region for Australia’s national security.

North Queensland is uniquely positioned on the doorstep of the Southwest Pacific as Australia’s natural theatre gateway for engagement, training, and possible military operations in this vitally important region.

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DEFENCE

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NORTH QUEENSLAND: FORWARD MOUNTING BASE FOR THE PACIFIC GROWTH OPPORTUNITY

HOUSTON AND SMITH DEFENCE STRATEGIC REVIEW

As Australia’s largest Garrison city, Townsville is home to over one-third of the Army’s combat forces. The basic building blocks are in place for the Townsville region to be a pillar of Defence capability with targeted Government investment.

NORTH QUEENSLAND’S DEFENCE CAPABILITY

In November 2022, Townsville Enterprise together with Townsville Mayor, Jenny Hill, Charters Towers Mayor, Frank Beveridge and Cairns Regional Council submitted the region’s Defence capability as part of the Smith and Houston Review.

To maintain and strengthen this ecosystem requires targeted Defence investment primarily focused on building a resilient, sovereign supply chain.

The deployable 3rd Brigade, the Amphibious Taskforce specialised landing force (2 RAR Group), and the 11th Brigade (Reserve) elements are all located at Lavarack Barracks.

WHAT WE NEED

The Ross Island Barracks at the mouth of the Ross River is equipped to provide logistical support, maintenance and berthing for the 10th Force Support Battalion, the 30th Terminal Squadron, the 35th Water Transport Squadron and the Army School of Transport – Maritime Wing.

1. F uture strategic challenges facing Australia which may require an Australian Defence Force operational response.

The Royal Australian Airforce Base Townsville is a joint user airfield supporting both military and civilian aviation operations. It is a major forward operating base for all types and sizes of military aircraft. The base is also home to the Army’s 5th Aviation Regiment operating tactical transport, cargo and maritime support helicopters.

A central part of Townsville’s defence capability is the presence of the Australian Army Combat Training Centre, providing world best practice for combat training and Cubic Defence Australia, a world-leader in live, simulated, and augmented training and computing services, and command control systems.

Defence employs over 6,400 uniformed and non-uniformed people in Townsville, accompanied by an estimated community of nearly 14,000 dependants, or 7.5% of Townsville’s population.

Townsville is home to a high number of ex-Defence personnel. The Census 2021 showed Townsville has the highest population of former ADF personnel in Australia with one in six households having a veteran compared to one in 20 in Australia.

The submission made the following recommendations:

Defence to continue to invest in regional training ranges, technology and infrastructure to support complex, combined international training activities that enhance ADF preparedness, interoperability and regional diplomacy.

Increase the scale of ADF logistics capability and infrastructure in North Queensland to facilitate local industry growth required to support force projection sustainment in the region.

2. T he estate, infrastructure, disposition, logistics and security investments required to provide Australia with the Defence Force posture required by 2032-2033.

Defence considers hardened facilities in the North Queensland region to enable dispersed fuel and ammunition storage and operations from satellite airfields.

Establish manufacturing for high yield explosive munitions in the industrial precincts within the Townsville region that offer ample land for safety buffers and efficient access to transportation infrastructure to ensure timely supply of ammunition given the short distance of deployment into the Indo-Pacfic region.

3. Integrated Investment Program reprioritisation.

Centralise majority of the Defence aviation capability in Townsville to realise capability, retention and cost saving efficiencies.

Base elements of the logistic support afloat capability including replenishment vessels and Army watercraft in Townsville to increase readiness and reduce costs and inefficiencies associated with long transits from southern ports.

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TOWNSVILLE NORTH QUEENSLAND

State Funding

Federal Funding

State and/or Federal

Funding N/A

DEFENCE

Locally based Defence aviation and maritime capabilities include logistics and maintenance with Defence committing to developing long-term strategic commercial arrangements of 10 to 20 years to build the local capacity required to support and sustain military operations in the northern regions of Australia.

4. I nvestments required to support Defence preparedness and mobilisation needs 2032-2033.

Develop Townsville as an Operational Test and Evaluation Hub with increased innovation and technology funding to ensure personnel are trained and equipment is suitable for operations in the Indo Pacific region.

Leverage the Port of Townsville Redevelopment to construct dedicated military facilities to berth, stage and load equipment and dangerous cargo for multiple ADF and coalition vessels including patrol vessels for as long as required without impacting the regional economy.

supply chain capability essential for rapid mobilisation of northern Queensland as a viable Theatre Gateway for short notice operations.

Funding needs to ensure longer term strategic investments are progressed.

Defence addresses the equity disconnect between military services and supply chain partners by collaborating on requirements going forward, and by examining contractual arrangements to share investment risk and build commercial viability in the region.

Complement the national security strategy and inform State and Federal Government regional planning by developing an economic strategy with appropriate funding to deliver enabling infrastructure and sovereign supply chain resilience across North Queensland.

Concentrate deeper maintenance for Defence aviation and Townsville based armoured vehicles with operational capability to retain a skilled Reserve workforce and build

JOINT AMPHIBIOUS FORCE CAPABILITY GROWTH OPPORTUNITY The 2020 Defence Strategy Update and Force Structure plan, describes Defence intention to invest in critical enabling infrastructure such as ports, wharves, fuel and explosive ordinance facilities and development. The plan also includes a requirement to support Army watercraft in Northern Australia.

Strategically located on Australia’s north east coast, Townsville is ideally suited as an amphibious mounting base for operations into the Pacific region. With close proximity to the majority of the ADF’s specialist amphibious, land and aviation force elements, the Port of Townsville offers easy access and shorter transits to major joint exercise and possible operating areas to the north and east of Australia.

The Port has commenced an upgrade program that includes deeper and wider approach entrance channels, extra berths, and significant land reclamation. A master plan is under development to guide the direction and future expansion of the Port for the next 30 years. Recent meetings with Defence recognised this upgrade and planning activity presents a window of opportunity

for consultation and cooperation to ensure possible efficiencies.

Operational requirements are carefully considered in the Port development long term planning process.

If Defence is considering increasing capacity at Townsville beyond the current limited availability, including a facility to support Army watercraft, a time sensitive window exists to consider future threats and opportunities linked to planned port expansions. Defence and the Port agreed to meet regularly to identify any operational restrictions or possible efficiencies for defence infrastructure that will be far more expensive to implement once the current upgrade is completed.

Fully supporting this consultation process will maximise the mutual benefit opportunities for Defence and Townsville North Queensland to support the amphibious capability.

24,269

CONSTRUCTION JOBS

750

PERMANENT ONGOING JOBS

58,245 INDIRECT JOBS

2023 STATE AND FEDERAL BUDGET SUBMISSION

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AFFORDABLE GREEN POWER & HYDROGEN With the world’s best wind and solar resources, high-tech skilled workforce and access to a port, Townsville North Queensland will lead the State and the nation’s green energy and hydrogen revolution.

The region’s potential as a renewable energy and green hydrogen hub is attracting international attention, as other major economies across the world seek out the affordable and secure supply of green energy.

The State Government’s announcement to acquire and fund CopperString 2032 is the key enabling infrastructure needed to connect North West Queensland with the National Electricity Grid for the first time in Australia’s history. This transmission line will unlock the $740 billion of untapped known minerals in this region and unleash 33GW of renewable energy along this corridor.

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TOWNSVILLE NORTH QUEENSLAND

AFFORDABLE GREEN POWER & HYDROGEN

COPPERSTRING 2032 THERE’S NO TRANSITION WITHOUT TRANSMISSION

More than a decade of advocacy by Townsville Enterprise and the leaders of North and North Queensland led to this history-making announcement. We thank the Premier and the State Government for their commitment to this key energy enabling project.

On 7 March, Queensland Premier Honourable Annastacia Palaszczuk announced in Townsville that the State Government would acquire and fund the $5 billion CopperString project.

This 1,100km transmission line would connect the people, businesses and communities of Mount Isa, Cloncurry and the North West Minerals Province to the National Electricity Grid for the first time in Australia’s history.

ABOUT COPPERSTRING CopperString means thousands of jobs and billions of dollars in increased revenue for Queensland and Australia.

The project will boost the national income by $45 billion while unlocking $740 billion of untapped resources which will increase with more exploration. CopperString will also unleash the 33GW of renewable energy along this corridor.

The North West Minerals Province has been held back being held back by some of the highest electricity prices in the world and lack of access to a competitive market. CopperString is a game changer for this region.

COPPERSTRING WILL: Support more than 20,000 existing jobs that rely on operations in the Townsville North Queensland region and North Weset Province.

Unlock more exploration in this world-class minerals province that is home to more than $740 billion of untapped resources.

Provide affordable and reliable energy solutions to an industry currently held back by the highest electricity prices in the world.

Unlock 33GW of green energy which would produce enough energy to power more than 30 times the demand of North Queensland for export from Townsville.

WHAT WE NEED For the State Government to commit to its timeline to build CopperString 2032. With early works to commence in 2023 with construction complete by 2029.

State Government investment into housing in Townsville to meet the workforce demand of the CopperString 2032 project.

State Funding

Federal Funding

State and/or Federal

COMMITTED 800

CONSTRUCTION JOBS

Funding N/A

50-100

PERMANENT ONGOING JOBS

3560 INDIRECT JOBS

2023 STATE AND FEDERAL BUDGET SUBMISSION

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AFFORDABLE GREEN POWER & HYDROGEN

SUPPORTING THE NORTH’S HYDROGEN POTENTIAL GROWTH OPPORTUNITY The Townsville Enterprise led North Queensland Hydrogen Consortium (NQH2) was welcomed into H2TCA, the Federal Government’s National Energy Resources Australia (NERA) network of hydrogen clusters in December 2021. Establishing Townsville as a declared Hydrogen Cluster.

In the October 2022 Federal Budget, NQH2 received $70M to progress the Townsville North Queensland hydrogen industry.

Townsville Enterprise thanks the Federal Government for its commitment to this emerging industry and the energy transition.

Concessions and incentives are now required to capitalise on this enormous opportunity for the region, the State, and the country.

WHAT WE NEED $70 million Federal Budget allocation made available in the first four years (not over eight years) to be first moving globally.

Network concessions - provide new electrolysers in operation by 2030 with partial concessions (approximately 90%) to network use of system charges. These concessions will incentivise the use of existing spare capacity in our network infrastructure to support industry in these crucial early stages of development. This action will significantly reduce the cost of hydrogen and incentivise investment at scale to reduce costs even further. By limiting the concessions to parts of the network with existing capacity, this mechanism will support the hydrogen industry to grow, while minimising impacts on other consumers.

Australian production incentive equivalent to fuel tax credit on diesel.

Demand incentives – Transition public transport fleets owned/contracted or subsidised by Government.

Bankable long term government supply contracts.

Government contracts that can peel back as private domestic offtake increases.

Additional grant/momentum money directed at stimulating the demand which will enable the origination of supply projects, which themselves can be supported by grants.

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TOWNSVILLE NORTH QUEENSLAND

State Funding

Federal Funding

State and/or Federal

Funding N/A

AFFORDABLE GREEN POWER & HYDROGEN

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HELLS GATES PUMPED STORAGE HYRDO SCHEME GROWTH OPPORTUNITY The proposed Hells Gates Pumped Storage business case will be built upon the Hells Gates Pumped Storage Project Feasibility Report. This proposed business case establishes and assesses the need, benefits and affordability of the Hells Gates Pumped Storage scheme to enable governments and private equity partners to make informed investment decisions regarding the project. The business case will identify the construction timeline and jobs together with the economic benefit analysis for the North Queensland region.

The proposed Hells Gates Pumped Storage Project is adjacent to the Upper Burdekin River and will have a capacity of 808MW. It will be located in Northern Queensland, within the Charters Towers Local Government Area (LGA), approximately 120km north of Charters Towers.

effective, high-demand green power with strong returns on investment that is expected to attract strong interest from the private sector.

BENEFITS: The feasibility report identifies the following benefits that can be explored further in a business case: 808MW of power.

Utilising hydropower energy.

Closed loop system with minimal water usage.

Potential standalone project.

Reducing greenhouse gases.

Strong private investment opportunities.

70–80% local spending on construction jobs and materials.

Skilled operational jobs and transferable skills.

STATUS:

Six-year construction period.

In January 2021, as part of the Hells Gates Dam business case the Hells Gates Pumped Storage Project feasibility report was delivered to the Queensland and Federal Government. This is a Pumped Hydro Storage system that can generate up to 808MW that is intended to integrate into the National Electricity Grid to secure reliable power for North Queensland.

Reliable, renewable, cost-effective power, with a long design life, for North Queensland.

Potential to deliver reductions in power costs.

Contributing to the energy transition from coal to renewables by helping to stabilise the grid (super battery) and support significant additional solar/wind in the North. It has the potential to create job opportunities in construction and operation and further skills training in construction and management, which will create an economic benefit to the North Queensland region with a positive impact on employment and new industries that are attracted by reliable green power. The feasibility report indicates the project has a strong financial base to produce cost

WHAT WE NEED Federal Government to approve and appoint Townsville Enterprise to deliver the Hells Gates Pumped Storage Business Case.

Support for project is integral to achieving State and National renewable energy targets.

FTE 800+* CONSTRUCTION JOBS

$11M State or Federal funding for the business case to get the project shovel ready.

FTE 30+* PERMANENT ONGOING JOBS

* Job numbers stated above are subject to further economic modelling as part of the preparation of the final business case.

State Funding

Federal Funding

State and/or Federal

Funding N/A

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TOWNSVILLE NORTH QUEENSLAND

ENABLING MANUFACTURING Bringing manufacturing back to Australia, Queensland and in particular North Queensland to overcome supply chain challenges.

AFFORDABLE ENABLING GREEN MANUFACTURING POWER & INDUSTRY

AYR INDUSTRIAL ESTATE EXPANSION INDUSTRY AND JOB GROWTH OPPORTUNITY Burdekin Shire Council’s proposal to develop additional land for industrial purposes is shovel ready.

The Stage 1 expansion of the Ayr Industrial Estate will create 25 (of 45) allotments in a fully serviced employment precinct.

Initially developed in the 1980s, Ayr’s existing industrial estate is at capacity. Adjoining land adjacent to the existing Ayr Industrial Estate was purchased in 2019 for expansion purposes.

Providing additional serviced industrial land in Burdekin Shire supports the objectives of the North Queensland Regional Plan (March 2020), which identifies a shortage of suitably sized and located industrial land in the region.

businesses will provide 176 direct jobs (on-site) with an indirect demand for intermediate goods and services across related industry sectors resulting in an estimated additional 174 jobs and the creation of a further 36 jobs as a result of consumption impacts.

The expanded Ayr Industrial Estate will improve the livelihoods of residents by supporting more people to participate in productive employment and apprenticeships as well as on-the-job training.

Social benefits would be improved through a reduction in social isolation, improving wellness, ensuring residents stay in the community, addressing mental health issues, and improving environmental impacts by, for example, reductions in emissions in residential areas.

The need has also been highlighted as a priority in the Townsville and North West Queensland Economic Recovery and Growth Strategy, which was prepared on behalf of Regional Development Australia Townsville and North West Queensland.

STATUS: A business case, Cost Benefit Analysis and Cost Summary have been prepared for the project.

Engineering designs and planning approvals are also in place.

BENEFITS: Stage 1 expansion will create 25 new businesses in the district with an estimated construction activity worth $54.1 million.

Once constructed, it is estimated new, existing and expanding

225

CONSTRUCTION JOBS

WHAT WE NEED

176

4 million from the State or Federal Government to $ support the project.

$54.1M

IN CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITY

PERMANENT ONGOING JOBS

174

INDIRECT JOBS

CHARTERS TOWERS ENTERPRISE PRECINCT Charters Towers Enterprise Precinct is a new commercial and industrial precinct to secure the future of economic investment and growth in the Charters Towers Region, with proximity to Charters Towers CBD, access to electricity, and features that make it versatile and attractive for a variety of commercial and industrial uses.

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DIRECT LOCAL CONSTRUCTION JOBS

State Funding

Federal Funding

WHAT WE NEED $16 million from State or Federal Government to complete trunk water infrastructure. $23.1

million from State or Federal Government to invest in the precinct immediately to secure several active enquiries:

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PERMANENT ONGOING JOBS

State and/or Federal

Funding N/A

•

$4 million – road train access

•

$4 million – Titley’s Road upgrades

•

$4 million – water connection

•

$5.2 million – electricity connection

•

$1.2 million – rezone and clear

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TOWNSVILLE NORTH QUEENSLAND

WATER & SOLVING THE GLOBAL FOOD CRISIS As the global food demand increases, protection and security of sources becomes critical, as does opening untapped cropping potential.

Support towards water and agricultural projects such as Hells Gates Dam and enhancing our Burdekin River system will support securing the food for the future.

State Funding

Federal Funding

State and/or Federal

Funding N/A

WORKFORCE, AFFORDABLE WATER & HOUSING SOLVING THE & BUSINESS GLOBAL ENABLERS FOOD CRISIS

REGENAQUA HINCHINBROOK WATER TREATMENT PROJECT GROWTH OPPORTUNITY The RegenAqua projects meets the objectives of the Reef 2050 Plan. It is a transformational technology that will drive sustainable growth of agriculture and aquaculture industries plus municipal infrastructure in North Queensland, while reducing existing levels of nitrogen and phosphorous being discharged into rivers and Great Barrier Reef waters from aquaculture and municipal wastewater treatment facilities.

RegenAqua is a homegrown, world-leading technology pioneered

by James Cook University (JCU) in partnership with Pacific Biotechnologies Pty Limited (PacBio), an innovative 100% Australian-owned company.

RegenAqua uses sunlight to convert these nutrients into macroalgae (seaweed), which is then processed into a biostimulant to accompany conventional fertilisers. The benefits are cleaner water, further aquaculture expansion and growth in sustainable agriculture.

The system was developed as a solution to reduce nutrient discharge on PacBio’s aquaculture assets, however, highly successful trials at Cleveland Bay and more recently at the Burdekin Wastewater Treatment Plants (WWTP) have proven the technology as an effective, low cost, scalable solution for Councils.

BACKGROUND: The basic principle of RegenAqua is that native green algae use sunlight to grow and absorb phosphorus and nitrogen (nutrient pollutants) from the waste water stream prior to discharge into the environment. Green algae is then harvested and converted into a biostimulant (PlantJuice) that enables the return of these elements back into the agricultural biosphere in a safe, low energy and value-adding form (like auxins, gibberellins etc.) rather than as damaging dissolved inorganic nitrogen (DIN).

These natural hormones enable plant growth and enrich soils reducing the dependency on traditional nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK) fertiliser systems, widely considered a source of DIN and pollution across the Great Barrier Reef catchment areas.

STATUS: The Burdekin Shire has been working with Pacific Bio for some time and is leading the way with a shovel ready project designed to protect its community, enable local industry growth, and reduce its impact on the Great Barrier Reef.

With a RegenAqua pre-facility in operation since March 2021, the facility is consistently delivering exceptional results with

nutrient pollutant reductions to below global best practice of 5mg/L Nitrogen and 1mg/L Phosphorus.

Construction of a commercial scale facility will commence in early 2023 and will be the model which will be applied to all other sites.

In November 2022, the RegenAqua Burdekin project received its final $2 million in State Government funding for a commercial scale facility (previous State Government funding of $3.5 million was received mid 2022). It is intended that this model will be duplicated in the Hinchinbrook Shire.

The Hinchinbrook RegenAqua Facility is currently sized at six hectares.

BENEFITS: This project supports jobs and economic development in North Queensland and demonstrates a practical solution to protecting one of the world’s greatest natural assets – the Great Barrier Reef. This Australian technology can not only help to protect our Great Barrier Reef, but could be exported to other nations in need of support of their ecosystems and reefs.

FUTURE SITES: Townsville City Council has expressed interest in implementing RegenAqua technology at the facility in Condon. The completion of these sites will provide a foundation that will enable RegenAqua macroalgal wastewater treatment to be adopted by other councils across North Queensland east coast where low cost, low energy wastewater treatment is needed to ensure protection of communities and the Great Barrier Reef.

THE BURDEKIN, HINCHINBROOK AND TOWNSVILLE PROJECTS COMBINED WILL REMOVE NUTRIENTS CURRENTLY DISCHARGED INTO THE GREAT BARRIER REEF CATCHMENT:

500T

102T

OF INORGANIC NITROGEN

OF INORGANIC PHOSPHORUS

4,511T

3,609

OF CARBON

CARS

WHAT WE NEED

$9 million from the State or Federal Government to establish facilities in the Hinchinbrook Shire.

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WATER & SOLVING THE GLOBAL FOOD CRISIS

VISIT OUR FAQ PAGE TO LEARN MORE

ENHANCING THE BURDEKIN RIVER SYSTEM LONG TERM WATER SECURITY

HELLS GATES DAM

The Burdekin River System is one of the largest river systems in Australia. The Upper Burdekin catchment is located in the wet tropics.

Hells Gates Dam is more than a Dam, it is a transformational project with generational benefits. It will support population growth, provide the water the country needs for green hydrogen production and unlock prime agricultural land to solve the global food crisis.

A HOLISTIC REVIEW OF THE BURDEKIN WATER PLAN AND NEW WATER INFRASTRUCTURE ARE KEY BECAUSE: Population has more than doubled since the Burdekin Dam was built in 1987.

73% of the rainfall occurs during the four-month wet season (December to March).

7.8 million megalitres flowing per year from the mouth of the Burdekin River.

Water losses and unallocated water reserves exist in lower Burdekin.

Climate change will see a shortening of rainfall period but the same amounts of rain which means additional infrastructure will be required.

North Queensland’s water security is critical – droughts last approximately 8-10 years.

Despite sustained periods of economic and population growth in North Queensland, there has been no increase in water storage capacity in more than three decades for the region. With the emerging Hydrogen industry, water security is critical.

UPPER AND LOWER BURDEKIN MUST WORK AS A COMBINED SYSTEM TO:

WHY HELLS GATES DAM? Hells Gates Dam and Irrigation Scheme presents a transformational economic development for Northern Australia, comprising of a unique agricultural project, that will double the value of crop production regionally utilising world leading land management and high-tech agriculture practises. Hells Gates Dam will be a key enabler for the region’s population growth and will open new industries such as hydrogen.

Hells Gates Dam presents a unique opportunity for the optimal use of currently unused water allocations within the vast Burdekin catchment if both dams (and the new Big Rocks Weir) were operated as a combined system.

IMPACTS OF THE GREAT BARRIER REEF The business case revealed Hells Gates Dam will have positive outcomes for the Great Barrier Reef.

I t will reduce sediment and nutrient loads to the Burdekin Dam due to the world leading land management and agricultural practices.

E xpanding irrigated agriculture in the upper rather than the lower Burdekin Basin will provide additional buffering against pollutant exports to the Great Barrer Reef.

Be the most beneficial water storage system in Northern Australia harnessing water within legislative environmental flows.

To ensure optimal use of the current unused water allocations within the vast Burdekin catchment.

Maximise environmental flow impacts and water supply reliability for both new and existing water allocation holders.

To future proof economic growth in North Queensland.

The proposed Hells Gates Dam is located approximately 120km north-west of Charters Towers and 160km north-west of Townsville. It is capable of storing 2,100GL of water and to irrigate 60,000 hectares of prime agricultural land.

WHAT WE NEED State Government support for water allocation for the project pathway to construction and to update the current Burdekin Water Plan to include Hells Gates Dam.

$50 million from State or Federal Government to complete the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS).

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TOWNSVILLE NORTH QUEENSLAND

State Funding

Federal Funding

State and/or Federal

Funding N/A

WATER & SOLVING THE GLOBAL FOOD CRISIS

WATCH OUR HELLS GATES DAM VIDEO

HYDROGEN PRODUCTION

Open 60,000 hectares of prime agricultural land.

Hells Gates Dam would support the emerging hydrogen industry through the provision of raw water.

Double the value of crop production regionally which will result in the Burdekin Basin becoming the largest contributor to Queensland’s non-livestock agricultural output and account for an additional 3% of the total national annual crop production.

Green hydrogen is produced by taking renewable power, high purity water and converting to hydrogen and oxygen gas via electrolysis. The water requirement for green hydrogen is 9L of water per 1kg of hydrogen produced.

In December 2022, Townsville Enterprise commissioned a Hydrogen Opportunities Report from GHD to investigate the hydrogen potential for Hells Gates Dam. The report concluded if large volumes of water available at Hells Gates Dam were used for hydrogen production this would complement the NQH2 Hydrogen Cluster and enhance the opportunity for large scale hydrogen production in Townsville.

Hells Gates Dam would also provide the opportunity to accelerate the development of hydrogen export facilities in the region. In addition, given the large area of surrounding land at Hells Gates Dam, there could be an opportunity for a large-scale renewable energy development (e.g. solar) to support green hydrogen production.

Interconnectedness with other projects including the Australian Singapore Military Training Centre, Port of Townsville and Townsville Airport upgrades to cater for agricultural exports and freight, and major transport initiatives.

Major infrastructure will be developed for the scheme, including enhanced and improved access to roads and energy.

Harnessing highest flow of Australian river resources to build long-term prosperity.

Staged to optimise funding option.

BENEFITS: The Hells Gates Dam Detailed Business Case confirmed the project will deliver the following benefits: Have a Benefit Cost Ratio of 1.05 for the full scheme.

Generate $6bn increase in GRP from agricultural projects, positively impacting the entire supply chain from the farm to the export terminals.

Provide long term water security and reliability for Townsville, Charters Towers and the surrounding regions.

Positive outcomes for the Great Barrier Reef.

Indigenous jobs and new business opportunities.

Create more than 10,000 jobs during construction and more than 3,000 ongoing jobs. These jobs would be highly skilled and high paid roles for generations.

WHY WATER SECURITY AND DAMS ARE CRITICAL FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF NORTHERN AUSTRALIA

The project would be one of Queensland’s largest irrigation schemes, with the largest dam and pressurised irrigation network.

FTE 10,000+ CONSTRUCTION JOBS

State Funding

Federal Funding

FTE 5,500+

$6BN

PERMANENT ONGOING JOBS

State and/or Federal

INCREASE IN GRP

Funding N/A

60,000HA

PRIME AGRICULTURAL LAND

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WORKFORCE, AFFORDABLE HOUSING & BUSINESS ENABLERS To optimise growth opportunities across Northern Australia and North Queensland, key business enablers need to be reviewed and solutions fast-tracked to ensure commercial enterprise across all industry sectors can fully realise their potential of the region.

As a zone of national significance, critical challenges must be addressed including reducing red tape, resolving business insurance and public liability, addressing the skills shortage and solving the affordable housing crisis.

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TOWNSVILLE NORTH QUEENSLAND

WORKFORCE, AFFORDABLE HOUSING & BUSINESS ENABLERS

READ THE HOUSING DEMAND ANALYSIS

HOUSING FUND TO SUPPORT 1,000 NEW INNER CITY APARTMENTS ADDRESSING THE HOUSING CRISIS CAUSED BY THE GLOBAL PANDEMIC Townsville North Queensland and the country are currently experiencing a housing crisis that has been exacerbated by the impacts of the global pandemic. Many people do not have access to long-term, secure and affordable housing.

Additionally, the regional vacancy rate is sitting at 0.9% (SQM, 2022) which is a record low for the region and is compounded by the region’s low unemployment of 2.5% and high proportion of renters (36.6% of Townsville residents are renters compared to the State average of 33.1%).

Townsville Enterprise and Townsville City Council have investigated the financial feasibility of a Build-To-Rent project in Townsville. As a regional city, Townsville faces unique challenges that drive up capital and operating costs associated with developing such a project. These include costs of energy, affordability of insurance and availability and rising costs of construction. In fact, the cost of building new developments in Townsville is 25% higher than in Brisbane. In order to attract private investment a Housing Fund is required to cover the existing cost disadvantages.

Urban renewal and activation Additional housing for growing labour market Influx of mid to higher end apartment options

STATUS: An independent housing demand analysis demonstrated that in order to meet future population growth forecasts, an additional 9,142 dwellings are required by 2026. In the inner city specifically, an additional 1,574 dwellings are required by 2026. The feasibility analysis can be made available on request.

There are several locations in Townsville that would be prime sites for Build-To-Rent projects. Townsville Enterprise and Townsville City Council have investigated the council-owned site of the North Rail Yard.

BUILD-TO-RENT MODEL: Build-To-Rent is an emerging housing trend in Australia with most projects currently located in major capital cities. This housing model sees apartment complexes built and designed by developers who retain ownership when complete. The apartments are then rented to tenants with the developer maintaining and managing the complex. These developments are typically underwritten by an institutional investor like a Superfund.

BENEFITS : Flexible lease arrangements for tenants Variety of amenities and lifestyle benefits

WHAT WE NEED Local and State Government partnership with private and institutional investors to deliver 1,000 dwellings/apartments in the Townsville Local Government Area.

$18.5M

GROSS REGIONAL PRODUCT

FTE 135

CONSTRUCTION JOBS

9,142

DWELLINGS REQUIRED BY 2026

$40 million from State or Federal Government for the shortfall of the Build-to-Rent project for 1,000 dwellings/apartments in the inner city to ensure financial viability for developers.

State Funding

Federal Funding

State and/or Federal

Funding N/A

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VISITOR ECONOMY & LIVEABILITY

WORKFORCE ATTRACTION AND HOUSING CAMPAIGN Townsville North Queensland currently has a record low and declining unemployment rate of 2.3%. With more than $60 billion worth of projects in the regions pipeline until 2032, workforce attraction, housing and investment will be critical to securing the future of the region and supporting population growth.

As identified in the North Queensland Workforce Strategy, there is a demand for 40,000 additional jobs in the region within the next decade, a target which has been widely supported. The jobs growth in Townsville North Queensland will happen in these key areas: Health, energy, water, agriculture and mining.

The State Government’s recent $5 billion announcement to acquire and build CopperString 2032 means Townsville North Queensland will be on the forefront and global leaders in the green energy transition. To ensure we are training the skills for tomorrow and building the population base that can support the realisation of the region’s green energy transition, migration (national and international) will be required.

Despite the immense opportunities within the region, Townsville’s net migration holds only 2% share of the national market. Population growth has been stable over the past few decades, and Townsville’s position as the centre of Australia’s

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TOWNSVILLE NORTH QUEENSLAND

energy transition, critical minerals processing and affordable lifestyle needs to be brought to the forefront.

Australia’s leading demographer Bernard Salt’s recent research into Townsville’s workforce opportunities identified that the greatest opportunity for regional migration sits within two key market segments: 1.

Under 30’s and millennials seeking meaningful career opportunities, who are able and ready to move to more affordable locations.

2.

Lifestyle Seekers aged 50+ who are empty nesters chasing a regional relocation, wanting to sell property in metropolitan markets to purchase in more affordable locations and fast track retirement.

Through Townsville Enterprise’s membership survey, it was identified that the greatest challenges for the region are accessibility, migration and population growth, awareness, and housing. That’s why we have put together a three phased action plan to combat these challenges and unlock the region’s full economic potential. An action plan which will be delivered by Townsville Enterprise through State Government support and backed by local industry partners.

State Funding

Federal Funding

State and/or Federal

Funding N/A

VISITOR ECONOMY & LIVEABILITY

PHASE 1

MELBOURNE, CANBERRA, AND SYDNEY AWARENESS RAISING PROMOTION $2.5 million domestic awareness raising promotion using sophisticated psychographic insights incorporating the values, beliefs and attitudes of Australians, which are the best predictors of consumer behaviour. Using this targeting we can reach our potential migrants with the most effective messages and media strategy that resonates. This phase will include delivering a digital promotion into metropolitan markets of Sydney, Canberra and Melbourne to drive awareness of Townsville North Queensland’s liveability and the opportunities for workers to be part of meaningful careers that support Australia’s green energy transition and critical minerals processing.

Housing Fund (Refer to Page 29) Existing Housing Market: Attracting investment for the existing housing market to leveraging the region predicted growth trajectory. Targeted in Sydney, Canberra and Melbourne to support increased rental offerings.

Government relocation incentives for critical staff to fast-track migration

PHASE 2 Accessibility Incentive Strategy National and international accessibility business case for Townsville North Queensland to build capacity, affordability, and availability of aviation.

PHASE 3 International Migration Strategy Development of a promotional campaign that extends from Phase 1 and drives key international migrant markets and builds awareness of the Designated Area Migration Agreement.

WHAT WE NEED unding support for Phase 1 with a forward commitment F as we plan towards Phase 2 and 3 of the Workforce Attraction and Housing campaign.

State Funding

Federal Funding

State and/or Federal

Funding N/A

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WORKFORCE, AFFORDABLE HOUSING & BUSINESS ENABLERS

BUSINESS ENABLERS INSURANCE The Townsville North Queensland region contributes to around $20 billion to the national GDP and yet we are required to operate commercially and within our domestic lives without accessible banking and affordable insurance services.

We have reached the point of ‘Market Failure’ leaving significant sectors of the economy, residents and small businesses exposed to no sufficient and/or affordable insurance in Northern Australia. Access to insurance is imperative for the Townsville North Queensland region to reach its full economic potential and essential to building resilient communities.

Other major weather events, such as the 2019 Floods would not be covered by the Pool.

Townsville Enterprise recommends: The current Pool to be reallocated to fund a governmentbacked insurance body – like the Territory Insurance Office Extend the Pool claim coverage to include flooding events.

The Pool needs to incentivise insurance providers to re-enter the market in Northern Australia.

The $10 billion reinsurance pool was a significant announcement with the potential to be a real solution to a decade-long problem of rising and unaffordable insurance.

Since the Pool has been operational, none of the 14 insurance providers operating in Northern Australia are participating in the Pool to date. The proposed benefits for consumers will continue to be delayed as insurers are not required to join the Pool until December 2023 for larger insurers and December 2024 for smaller insurers.

Insurance has been cited as a major hurdle for developers due to the difficulty in obtaining insurance and the costs which have been found to be more than 20% higher than in Brisbane. This comes at a time with the current housing crisis resulting in outcry from the public and businesses to resolve this issue.

Another concern is the claims period. As the Pool only covers claims within the 48-hour period after the cyclone has been downgraded and would not cover ongoing damage sustained by the cyclone once it has weakened to a low-pressure system.

OUR SUBMISSION TO TREASURY

OUR SUBMISSION TO THE JOINT SELECT COMMITTEE FOR NORTHERN AUSTRALIA

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TOWNSVILLE NORTH QUEENSLAND

OUR SUBMISSION TO THE AUSTRALIAN SMALL BUSINESS AND FAMILY ENTERPRISE OMBUDSMAN

WORKFORCE, AFFORDABLE HOUSING & BUSINESS ENABLERS

PUBLIC LIABILITY INSURANCE The cost of insurance is forcing many tourism and hospitality businesses to self-insure. In addition to the ever-increasing cost of property insurance, tourism operators are finding that public liability renewal notices have seen significant premium increases or in some cases cover was outright refused. We have already seen tourism businesses in North Queensland, particularly in the adventure sector, close their doors because they are unable to obtain or afford public liability insurance.

Townsville Enterprise recommends: A review into the ‘no win, no fee’ litigation arrangements.

Introduction to capped public liability payouts.

Government intervention and review of both State and Federal legislation could review tort law and associated liability payments in case of fault or breach of duty of care; and, Government funded, insurance industry-supported educational program with the tourism industry to support increased risk mitigation measures within businesses.

BANKING SUPPORT Critical minerals and agriculture are an important part of our economy and the security of current exports and future growth will turbocharge jobs, business and confidence for us all.

There is a significant risk to the nation’s regional communities when major financial institutions apply bias to appease capital city clients. Financial institutions have no right to dictate what critically important regions, like North Queensland, export. If there is global demand, then there is no reason why these institutions should not offer finance – this will create a dangerous precedent for our nation if this is allowed to occur.

OUR SUBMISSION INTO THE PRUDENTIAL REGULATION OF INVESTMENT IN AUSTRALIA’S EXPORT INDUSTRIES.

Whilst an eye must certainly be kept on future technologies, support must continue towards existing industries. Additionally, not only are those working within the thermal coal industry discriminated against when seeking finance, but now so too are regional communities. Banks are not only closing their shopfronts in rural towns but are also applying unrealistic requirements on those seeking financial support. In Cloncurry for example, banks are mandating a 40% deposit for any lending across the region. This is putting a significant handbrake on growth in these areas and adding pressure on retaining what little population is there.

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07

HEALTH, KNOWLEDGE & RESEARCH Townsville North Queensland is home to James Cook University, Townsville University Hospital and Mater Private Hospital Townsville and a range of other health, education, research and innovation enterprises such as CSIRO, Tec-NQ, Australian Institute of Marine Science, Australian Institute for Tropical Medicine and Arc Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies.

North Queensland is on the precipice of establishing itself as a global leader in tropical health and knowledge, a community dedicated to helping the world access, understand and benefit from breakthroughs and solutions in health and tropical science. Supported by world class digital connectivity, the region could have the ability to provide excellence never seen before in health care to remote neighbours.

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TOWNSVILLE NORTH QUEENSLAND

HEALTH, KNOWLEDGE & RESEARCH

SECURING NORTH QUEENSLAND’S GLOBAL LEADERSHIP IN AQUACULTURE GROWTH OPPORTUNITY

AQUACULTURE IS SET TO BE AUSTRALIA’S 2ND LARGEST AGRI-FOOD EXPORT BY 2050:

The Tropical Aquaculture Accelerator will kickstart the expansion of Northern Australia’s aquaculture industry to a $1.34 billion per year export industry.

North Queensland has a game-changing opportunity to entrench Queensland’s position as the epicentre of aquaculture in Australia and globally.

The $79.5 million Accelerator will combine James Cook

Unlocking the land value of Northern Australia – 1.2 million hectares suitable.

Demand for high quality seafood protein is skyrocketing.

Market set to be worth $12.8 billion by 2050.

Northern Australia aquaculture is set to increase production five-fold within a decade and exceed $1.34 billion each year.

University’s ( JCU) global expertise in Aquaculture innovation, research and commercialisation and world-leading, fit-forpurpose facilities with entrepreneurial and expanding industry partners including Ornatas, Mainstream Aquaculture and Seafarms.

The Accelerator will catalyse this landmark industry-facing initiative by providing tanks, laboratories, training and support for innovation that will enable the Aquaculture industry to do the critical on-going research it needs to meet current demand and continue to grow, including:

Domesticating new species, such as tiger prawns.

Enhancing quality, disease resistance and growth rates with genomics-driven breeding.

Creating new low-net-waste production systems.

Devising new quality control systems that can match every prawn against market expectation.

T his project is shovel ready. Work can start this financial year as a result of several years of planning by JCU with consultants Oceanis and AEC.

Ornatas strategically chose Townsville for several reasons including the proximity to JCU having access to world leading researchers in aquaculture, bioremediation and aquatic health will be vital to exploit our technology to its full potential.

SCOTT PARKINSON CEO, ORNATAS

WHAT WE NEED

$2.6BN

$26.5 million from both the State and Federal Governments to match $26.5 million committed funding from JCU.

State Funding

Federal Funding

State and/or Federal

GROSS REGIONAL PRODUCT

Funding N/A

11,227

FTE JOBS BETWEEN 2023/24 AND 2034/35

2023 STATE AND FEDERAL BUDGET SUBMISSION

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HEALTH, KNOWLEDGE & RESEARCH

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT TROPIQ HERE

TROPIQ: TROPICAL INTELLIGENCE AND HEALTH PRECINCT GROWTH OPPORTUNITY

$32 million North Queensland Simulation Park (NQ Spark).

TropiQ, Townsville’s Tropical Intelligence and Health Precinct is a global destination that lives and breathes realworld research and innovation.

Backed by Townsville City Council and located only 13km from the Townsville CBD, TropiQ is situated at the nexus of Townsville University Hospital (TUH) and James Cook University ( JCU) and shares a boundary with Australia’s largest Army base, Lavarack Barracks.

TropiQ is experiencing significant growth via the expansion programs of its key institutional partners, whilst also managing development enquiries for a range of projects exceeding $1 billion in overall value.

To ensure these development opportunities can be effectively realised, and to cater for the increased demand on trunk infrastructure, TropiQ requires an immediate planning program to establish enabling infrastructure needs. This work is beyond the means and capabilities of the University, the Hospital and Townsville City Council and requires government funding and support.

STATUS:

These major projects will deliver significant economic and social benefits to the community but will place considerable strain on supporting infrastructure such as roads, power, and water.

This significant investment will also position the TropiQ precinct to attract further investment from public and private proponents who have already indicated interest in the competitive advantage offered by the precinct. This could introduce thousands of health and knowledge jobs into Townsville and increase the annual economic output from $3.5 billion to more than $4.4 billion by 2035.

Achieving this revolutionary benefit for the region is directly dependent on establishing the enabling infrastructure needs, which will not be possible without government investment.

The TropiQ program is underpinned by a range of masterplanning processes, regional, local and State Government plans and policies. These include: Townsville University Hospital Masterplan James Cook University Masterplan Townsville City Deal - Health and Knowledge Development Strategy North Queensland Regional Plan

TropiQ is home to approximately 70 organisations and contributes $3.5 billion to the regional economy annually.

Queensland Innovation Places Strategy DTMR Douglas Transport Study

It is the most significant innovation and employment hub for North Queensland and adjoins Australia’s largest land-based Defence Force (Lavarack Barracks).

2035 VALUE:

Masterplan processes have resulted in major investment in the precinct, including soon to be delivered major infrastructure projects such as:

$4.4B

ECONOMIC OUTPUT FOR BUSINESSES

$530 million TUH expansion and associated ~$80 million multi-level carpark

INCLUDING $1.7B DIRECTLY

Private Hospital development interest (circa $200 million + project)

$2.7B

$94M JCU Technology Innovation Complex

GRP INCLUDING $1.2B DIRECTLY

$54M JCU student accommodation

WHAT WE NEED 10 million from State or Federal Government to support $ the construction and detailed planning of the enabling infrastructure for TropiQ.

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TOWNSVILLE NORTH QUEENSLAND

21,261 FTE JOBS

State Funding

11,240

Federal Funding

FTE JOBS DIRECTLY

$1.7B

WAGES AND SALARIES

State and/or Federal

Funding N/A

HEALTH, KNOWLEDGE & RESEARCH

MATERNITY AND RENAL REDEVELOPMENT PROJECT GROWTH OPPORTUNITY

Replacing aging facilities with state-of-the-art units based on the latest models of care will further enhance outcomes.

Mater Private Hospital Townsville has commenced planning for the relocation of maternity and renal services from Hyde Park to the Pimlico Campus with detailed designs and construction of a new purpose-built facility underway.

This project is the new chapter in Mater Private Hospital Townsville’s 10 year Masterplan to address the unmet healthcare needs of the community.

At-home pre and post-birth care for babies and parents significantly reduces the period that people are away from their rural or remote communities during childbirth.

Reduced wait times for renal dialysis improves patient outcomes and reduces overall health costs for community.

Expanded access to renal dialysis increases the number of people who can be treated and reduces waiting times for new

The $29 million project will provide:

patients – especially remote residents.

A purpose-built Mater Mothers’ facility designed to deliver contemporary maternity services including antenatal, intrapartum and postnatal care for women and babies up to six weeks. Including 18 inpatient beds, 4 birthing suites, 8 special care nursery cots as well as dedicated and director assess to operating theatres.

A refurbished, fit-for-purpose renal unit, expanding from 8 treatment chairs to 16.

Co-location of all acute medical services on one site.

As the only private tertiary maternity provider north of Mackay capable of dealing with complex pregnancy and paediatric issues, this project will provide significant public and patient benefit across northern Australia.

STATUS: Development approval lodged with Townsville City Council in December 2022 with a view to go to tender March 2023 and construction to be underway by July 2023.

Mater Private Hospital Townsville has submitted a Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility (NAIF) application.

The proposed facility will be located adjacent to the new multistorey car park with direct access into level one of the Mercy Centre, central to clinical admissions.

Construction will commence in March 2023, with an 18-month delivery period.

BENEFITS: The project will enable a 45% growth of Mater’s renal services through expanded capacity.

WHAT WE NEED Federal Government support through NAIF.

State Funding

Federal Funding

State and/or Federal

Funding N/A

2023 STATE AND FEDERAL BUDGET SUBMISSION

37

HEALTH, KNOWLEDGE & RESEARCH

FIRST NATION’S HEALTH AND SOCIAL SUPPORT FACILITY PRESERVING AUSTRALIA’S OLDEST SURVIVNG CULTURE FOR GENERATIONS TAIHS Revitalisation Project Townsville Aboriginal and Islander Health Service (TAIHS) provides accessible, integrated health and social support services to Aboriginal and Islander people so that they can live healthier, stronger and longer lives, preserving Australia’s oldest surviving culture for future generations.

Currently, the Townsville University Hospital Emergency Department is under unnecessary pressure due to presentations of acute conditions from First Nations people who do not have anywhere to go for care. The new facility from TAIHS will provide a dedicated facility for a range of health care needs, in one location.

The facility will: Provide more individuals, families and community access to GPs.

About TAIHS TAIHS currently provides outreach to Charters Towers, Hinchinbrook and the Burdekin via their satellite clinics.

T he clinic services (health, dental and maternal and child health services) on average 140 patients per day at the Garbutt Clinic.

More than 600 families are supported per year.

More than 300 children are placed by the Foster and Kinship Service.

More than 80 vulnerable people are supported through the Youth and Adult Accommodation Service.

T he Youth Justice Service supports more than 500 young people per year through its integrated bail support, youth mental health and lighthouse service.

TAIHS has a workforce of 185 with 70% of its workforce First Nations.

Provide expecting mothers access to maternal and child health services as well as sexual health services.

Reduce presentations at the Townsville University Hospital Emergency Department particularly for acute conditions.

Provide transport to and from the clinic from other TAIHS facilities throughout Townsville.

Provide community based programs which help to reduce recidivism through a holistic approach to case coordination with families and vulnerable people.

STATUS:

T he project has received all development approvals from the Townsville City Council.

T he Facility will be developed on existing land owned by TAIHS.

A rchitectural drawings and plans have been completed for the Facility.

WHAT WE NEED

$6.5 million from State or Federal Government to support the construction of the new Garbutt Facility.

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TOWNSVILLE NORTH QUEENSLAND

600+

FAMILIES SUPPORTED EACH YEAR

State Funding

Federal Funding

500+

YOUNG PEOPLE SUPPORTED EACH YEAR

State and/or Federal

Funding N/A

HEALTH, KNOWLEDGE & RESEARCH

BUILDING HEALTHY BRAINS SUPPORTING OPTIMAL BRAIN DEVELOPMENT IN CHILDREN AND YOUTH The Tropical Brain and Mind Foundation aims to establish a Centre for Brain Health in the Tropics focusing on research that will improve brain health across the lifespan.

The Foundation is seeking government support to build this Centre which will focus on the development of healthy brains in children and adolescents.

For more than 10 years, the Foundation has worked to improve brain health in the Townsville North Queensland region.

YOUTH CRIME AND THE BRAIN: Youth crime is more than just police matter. Youth crime is intimately linked to the development of brain matter. We can only stop youth crime if we understand this complex process during childhood and adolescence and if we develop efficient, neuroscience-informed approaches to help healthy brain development. The human brain undergoes tremendous developmental changes between the age of 10 and 14. Such changes are influenced by transgenerational, epigenetic, vulnerability, social and chemical adversity as well as the psychosocial toxicity of stress and trauma in early life.

The developing brain is highly malleable (plastic). That is why it can be shaped for the worse by the disadvantageous constellation of these factors. But the same malleability gives us the chance to intervene and to push the brain back on a healthy developmental track leading to age-appropriate behavioural and emotional control and healthy decision-making, ultimately resulting in turning away from criminal behaviours.

THE BRAIN PLACE: The Brain Place - Centre of Brain Health in the Tropics offers an integrated program of screening, early intervention and the design of education and training for children and their parents/ carers and family support organisations.

A teenager’s brain has a well-developed accelerator but only a partly developed brake. The Brain Place will focus on the developmental process in vulnerable children and youth and will develop tools to slow down the accelerator and improve the brake.

BENEFITS OF THE RESEARCH PROJECT: The research will support children who are vulnerable.

Children are our future and deserve our highest levels of nurturing support to grow into happy, healthy and contributing adults The research can be replicated across jurisdictions.

Alleviating the criminal behaviours apparent in particular groups of children and young people.

Strengthening the parenting skills of those responsible for these young people.

Reducing community fear and anxiety that leads to increased racism and extreme reactions to criminality in the community.

Reducing the cost burden to victims of crime and to governments.

Contributing to the social and economic fabric of communities with a focus on what is required to establish a functioning well-being economy starting with our children and families.

The project will work with organisations such as Life Without Barriers, local schools, health professionals and government agencies.

EXPERT MINDS INVOLVED: The research projects includes leading minds: Professor Zoltan Sarnyai, expert in neurobiology of brain development and stress biology, Associate Professor Carlo Longhitano, Head of Psychiatry at James Cook University and Dr Liza van Eijk, brain imaging expert with special interest in adolescent brain network development.

WHAT WE NEED

$10.2 million from State or Federal Government to support stage 1 of this significant research project for brain health in youth and children. This is a five year proposal which will require staged funding.

State Funding

Federal Funding

State and/or Federal

Funding N/A

2023 STATE AND FEDERAL BUDGET SUBMISSION

39

08

LIVEABILITY & VISITOR ECONOMY The tourism, hospitality, and events sector was the first and hardest hit by the impacts of the global pandemic.

The sector is part of the lifeblood of these regional economies and plays a significant role in supporting the liveability and workforce attraction. As North Queensland’s traditional industries start to transition, tourism will not only remain a critical sector, but also offers diversification opportunities towards sustainable, long-term employment for these regional communities.

Whilst Townsville North Queensland’s visitor numbers are slowly returning to pre-covid, the region requires sustainable funding, targeted investment, and support for new tourism experiences and infrastructure for this industry to accelerate and exceed.

40

TOWNSVILLE NORTH QUEENSLAND

State Funding

Federal Funding

State and/or Federal

Funding N/A

VISITOR ECONOMY & LIVEABILITY

PALUMA TO WALLAMAN TRAIL TOURISM PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT Development of new tourism infrastructure that aligns to the demands of visitors and delivers authentic and immersive cultural experiences provides a unique opportunity for tourism growth.

STATUS: Business case for the Paluma to Wallaman Trail has been completed.

State Government committed $2 million to progress early works.

Eco based adventure travel as well as cultural tourism have been identified as the largest growth opportunity markets for the future visitor economy. Queensland’s runway towards the 2032 Olympics provides an ideal opportunity to develop refreshed tourism experiences that supports visitor dispersal into regions like Townsville North Queensland.

The proposed Paluma to Wallaman Falls Trail follows an ancient First Nation’s trading line, a language line and a song line. History is written in its awe-inspiring landscapes providing a flowing narrative for visitors to discover, to be challenged and to feel exhilarated.

The Paluma to Wallaman Trail is a spiritual journey 60,000 years in the making and will provide a unique opportunity for the First Nations People to share the extraordinary stories of this country in a way that respects, retains and improves the values.

The trail is proposed to be a mixed-use trail. Once completed, the trail would be 127km long (8 days/7 nights) and will link the Paluma Rainforest and Wallaman Falls – Australia’s largest sheer drop waterfall. The completed trail would require approximately 80km of new trails and eco-accommodation and camping at approximately 11-15kms apart.

BUSINESS CASE: The recently completed business case indicates that the ability to offer a series of shorter trails along with the full multiday experience, as well as a range of accommodation options, will provide additional appeal to a broader market enhancing the overall success of the trail. The trail covers three Local Government Areas of Townsville, Charters Towers and Hinchinbrook – and would provide activation and economic benefit into each.

$81.5M OVER 10 YEARS

The business case for the trail indicates that the project yields a Benefit Cost Ratio of 1.0 and estimates total users of the trail would increase from 9,000 in the first year to 25,883 by year 10.

178.6 FTE

WHAT WE NEED

DURING CONSTRUCTION

16.1 FTE ONGOING JOBS

46.9 million from State or Federal Government for project $ planning, management, and development (staged as per business plan), inclusive of a Traditional Owner training and employment program.

2023 STATE AND FEDERAL BUDGET SUBMISSION

41

VISITOR ECONOMY & LIVEABILITY

MAGNETIC ISLAND TOURISM DEVELOPMENT SUSTAINABLE TOURISM DEVELOPMENT Magnetic Island (Yunbenun) is a thriving community uniquely positioned within the World Heritage Listed area and Great Barrier Reef and provides a compelling proposition for visitors of today and tomorrow. In recent years, the Island has experienced unprecedented visitation, welcoming around 290,000 visitors annually and supporting approximately 25% of the region’s tourism jobs.

Townsville Enterprise, under the guidance and supervision

The Magnetic Island Tourism Masterplan identifies several projects and developments that support the Island to achieve this vision. The Island is Townsville North Queensland’s hero tourism experience and will play an important role in supporting the region’s ambitions for direct international flights to Singapore. With the Australia and Singapore Military Agreement in place, Townsville will see more than 14,000 Singaporean soldiers in the region each year for 25 years, providing an opportunity to promote holiday packages for the friends and relative’s market.

of a steering committee representing community, industry, Traditional Owners and Government have recently released a draft Tourism Masterplan for Magnetic Island, with the final plan due for release in Quarter 1 2023.

The Magnetic Island Tourism Masterplan is a blueprint designed to ensure visitor growth is managed to protect the natural environment and the world heritage values, and deliver a worldclass, best in Australia experience that aligns to the values and vision of the community, increases the economic return from tourism, and attracts private investment to the Island.

WHAT WE NEED 1 million from State or Federal Government to Townsville $ Enterprise for destination marketing and to build the brand and profile of Magnetic Island under the unified vision.

$3.5 million from State or Federal Government to develop a visitor facing Magnetic Island Koala Hospital.

$2 million from State or Federal Government for the Tourism Infrastructure Fund. This competitive fund will support development of new tourism experience or provide funding for upgrades to existing infrastructure.

$89.7M

ECONOMIC CONTRIBUTION OVER 10 YEARS

3.84 million from State or Federal Government towards $ development of trails in line with the Magnetic Island Trails Vision .

Insurance and workforce policy (refer to page 30)

42

TOWNSVILLE NORTH QUEENSLAND

458

JOBS - DELIVERY OF FULL MAGNETIC ISLAND TOURISM MASTERPLAN

State Funding

Federal Funding

State and/or Federal

Funding N/A

VISITOR ECONOMY & LIVEABILITY

DOWNLOAD THE DRAFT TOURISM MASTERPLAN

MAGNETIC ISLAND KOALA HOSPITAL

IZZY’S KOALA WORLD – NETFLIX SERIES:

The Magnetic Island Koala Hospital was created for the rescue and rehabilitation of injured, sick and orphaned koalas on Magnetic Island.

Isabelle Bee or Izzy as she is affectionately known, is the daughter of Ali and Tim. At only 15 years old, Izzy has dedicated her life to the conservation of koalas on Magnetic Island. In 2020, Izzy took Magnetic Island to the world with her Netflix series, Izzy’s Koala World. Izzy and her family’s dream is to develop a visitor facing Magnetic Island Koala Hospital.

Magnetic Island is home to the largest wild koala population in Northern Australia. In 1935, 17 of these iconic animals were introduced to the Island to sustain the Australian population.

BACKGROUND: The hospital was setup by Dr Ali Bee and her husband Tim in 2000. Dr Ali worked as a veterinarian on Magnetic Island and quickly found that many of the koalas who came to the vet clinic needed somewhere for longer term care.

Initially the koalas were cared for at the Bee home, but gradually enclosures were setup with the help of the Magnetic Island community and generous supporters.

A State Government grant allowed the building of a Koala Kindergarten and Clinic which opened in 2014.

In 2017, a larger enclosure was built from generous donations from local firm, Glencore and Rockmount Racing.

Magnetic Island’s industry, community, Traditional Owners and Government stakeholders have come together to develop a shared vision:

WE WANT MAGNETIC ISLAND TO BE A WORLD LEADING SUSTAINABLE ISLAND DESTINATION INSPIRING LAND AND REEF STEWARDSHIP THAT ENHANCES THE QUALITY OF LIFE OF OUR COMMUNITY AND STRENGTHENS THE CULTURAL IDENTITY OF OUR ISLAND HOME.

2023 STATE AND FEDERAL BUDGET SUBMISSION

43

VISITOR ECONOMY & LIVEABILITY

NORTH AUSTRALIA ARTS PRECINCT GROWTH OPPORTUNITY

Predictions of future demand and population growth will only exacerbate pressure on current facilities if not addressed and will severely limit the development of the performing arts industry in North Queensland and hinder the attraction of national and international cultural events.

The North Australia Arts Precinct will be an international standard, multi-purpose venue which celebrates and promotes First Nations culture through immersive visual and performing arts experiences.

The centrally located precinct will activate Townsville’s city centre and generate significant socio-economic benefit through increased residents and tourists visiting the city generating economic activity, improved social connectivity, enhanced Townsville place brand, job creation, volunteering opportunities and greatly improved viability of local community groups and events.

The delivery of a modern and flexible entertainment facility is a key commitment of the Townsville City Deal. Several studies have been conducted and demonstrate a significant gap in the offering of cultural facilities and a lack of cultural infrastructure investment over the last fifty years in the Townsville region.

There is great opportunity to provide the North with a thriving arts and cultural events calendar.

The North Australia Arts Precinct will support the growth of the regions indigenous artists, enabling a diverse offering of performing and visual arts that include the opportunity to embrace the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Successful delivery of the North Australia Arts Precinct will further enhance Townsville’s reputation as the events capital of North Australia and promote the region on an international scale as a leading centre for visual and performing arts, attracting world class performances and facilitating the future growth of North Australia’s art and culture industry.

Whilst Townsville is home to many leading sporting facilities, it is currently overlooked by major national and international performances due to the current arts and cultural facilities being outdated, limited availability and not containing the necessary technical equipment required by professional artists.

Community artists are suffering from the lack of facilities and are often required to relocate away from North Queensland to be situated in areas where they can develop into professional artists. The inability to provide facilities which nurture emerging artists is restricting the ability of Townsville to grow its arts and cultural sector and results in a necessity of local artists to relocate.

Previous studies consistently conclude that there is a clear need for capital investment in cultural facilities in Northern Australia. Studies also confirm the current facilities do not meet modern technological requirements and capacity is insufficient to meet demand, resulting in significant forgone opportunities.

WHAT WE NEED Rapid delivery of the detailed business case which is currently underway by the Federal Government.

98 million in committed funding subject to the outcome $ of the detailed business case.

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TOWNSVILLE NORTH QUEENSLAND

934

CONSTRUCTION JOBS

State Funding

55

PERMANENT ONGOING JOBS

Federal Funding

2,242 INDIRECT JOBS

State and/or Federal

Funding N/A

VISITOR ECONOMY & LIVEABILITY

TOWNSVILLE CITY DEAL The Townsville City Deal was signed in December 2016 and is a 15-year commitment between the Federal Government of Australia, the Queensland Government and Townsville City Council, to work collectively to strategically plan and deliver transformational outcomes for the Townsville region.

Townsville is the first of Australia’s City Deal initiatives and is designed to reinvigorate Townsville through building investment in local infrastructure, economic growth, industry activation, job creation and city revitalisation.

The Townsville City Deal is striving to deliver a prosperous economic future for the region to position Townsville as a vibrant, liveable and innovative city, and unlock the potential for business and industry development to enable Townsville to become: The economic gateway to Asia and Northern Australia.

A prosperous and highly liveable city for residents and visitors A global leader in tropical and marine research and innovation As Government bodies continue to work together to deliver for the region, many of the initial commitments under the City Deal have been completed or have evolved and continue to progress to achieve their intended outcomes. City Deal Partners recognise the importance of adapting to align with emerging priorities and as such, Partners continue to review existing and newly announced commitments. In addition, negotiations have commenced to establish a new commitment program under the Townsville City Deal, focused on enhancing the liveability and environmental sustainability of the region.

The proposed liveability and environment program will celebrate the region’s local characteristics and rich cultural heritage through the delivery of improved public realm, attractive destinations and sustainable natural environment enhancements. Projects identified for inclusion in the proposed liveability and environment program will greatly contribute to achieving the intent of the City Deal, will link seamlessly to other projects delivered under the Deal and activate the city’s many entertainment, hospitality, leisure and cultural facilities, promoting the city as an ideal place to work, live and visit.

Through the announcement of additional commitments in 2021, $100 million was allocated to a Townsville Concert Hall consisting of $2 million for a detailed business case for a Concert Hall (currently being delivered) and a further $98 million commitment to construct the facility, subject to the outcome of the business case. The delivery of the critical piece of arts and culture infrastructure will generate significant economic and social benefit for the region and further enhance Townsville’s reputation as the events capital of North Australia.

Commitment to rapidly progress delivery of the Concert Hall business case and establish the liveability and environment program opportunity will stimulate significant interest and private investment for Townsville, drive economic growth and enable the region to continue to transform into a city that not only attracts industry and a skilled workforce, but retains its existing population and positions Townsville as a vibrant, liveable and innovative city.

WHAT WE NEED Delivery of the detailed business case from the Federal Government for the Concert Hall, with a further $98 million committed funding subject to the outcome of the business case.

Commitment to establishment of a new Liveability and Environment commitment program under the Townsville City Deal focused on enhancing the lifestyle and environment of the region.

Finalise the remaining $26 million of unallocated Federal Government funding under the Townsville City Deal to priority projects.

State Funding

Federal Funding

State and/or Federal

Funding N/A

2023 STATE AND FEDERAL BUDGET SUBMISSION

45

46

TOWNSVILLE NORTH QUEENSLAND

2023 STATE AND FEDERAL BUDGET SUBMISSION

47

TOWNSVILLE ENTERPRISE ABN: 58 053 020 536 151 Sturt Street PO Box 1043 Townsville Queensland, 4810 Australia Phone: Email:

+61 7 4726 2728 tel@tel.com.au

townsvilleenterprise.com.au