The Queensland Government has called for expressions of interest to bring forward fuel refining and storage proposals on government owned sites and ports across the state.
The call is part of the state fuel security plan which seeks to promote drilling, refining and storing of fuel locally.
The Accelerating Fuel Infrastructure Program is seeking expressions of interest for sites in Brisbane, Townsville, Mackay, Gladstone, Abbot Point and Bundaberg.
The program includes:
- A statewide audit of Government-owned industrial and port land that could be developed for new oil refineries or fuel storage facilities (already underway).
- Rapid market engagement for the industry to bring forward fuel refining and storage proposals for consideration on state owned land (now open).
- Streamlined processes for approvals and delivery of fuel storage and refineries on these sites.
The industry will also be able to identify and propose sites that could be suitable for development.
The Program will also provide a coordinated whole-of-government framework to streamline and fast-track assessment and approvals.
The Queensland Fuel Security Plan includes:
- Unlocking oil reserves – helping reduce reliance on imports and stabilise prices by fast tracking approvals to extract fuel from Queensland’s Taroom Trough.
- Refining more fuel here in Queensland – more fuel processed locally, keeping fuel costs lower and more predictable.
- Boosting fuel storage capacity – protecting against shortages and sudden price spikes.
- Removing state taxes on fuel price rises – delivering immediate savings every time Queenslanders fill up and permanently locking in 50 cent fares on public transport.
- Improving transparency – backing States and Territories in pushing Canberra to publish a dashboard with incoming fuel shipments to plan ahead for future pressures.
Premier David Crisafulli said Queensland needed to restore its ability to drill, refine and store fuel in the state.
“More storage and refining fuel locally means it’s easier for families to fill up and small businesses to stay afloat amidst rising national cost pressures,” he said.
“We have a plan across the short, medium and long-term to get projects moving to produce oil, refine it and store fuel locally, as well as deliver relief and fight for Queenslanders receiving the most accurate information available.”
Queensland’s Coordinator-General Gerard Coggan said this program was designed to fast‑track private investment by removing barriers and streamlining project delivery.
“This program provides industry with a clear entry point to government and a coordinated pathway to progress major fuel infrastructure proposals,” Mr Coggan said.
“We’re working closely with proponents to navigate assessment and approval processes efficiently.”
Australian Institute of Petroleum CEO Malcolm Roberts welcomed the new framework.
“Recent events have shown storage is a key part of ensuring there’s adequate fuel supply and confidence in the market when global supply chains are disrupted” Mr Roberts said.
“Opportunities to expand the nation’s fuel capacity, as well as capability, and allow a fast and efficient pathway to get it done is a welcome move. It provides that important confidence for the industry and motorists.
For more information or to register your interest, visit www.coordinatorgeneral.qld.gov.au/accelerating-fuel-infrastructure-program
