The Queensland Government will invest in bolstering the environmental, social, and governance (ESG) capability of the state’s critical mineral sector.
State Resources Minister Scott Stewart said as the resources sector navigated an increasingly ESG-conscious landscape it was essential companies operating in Queensland were able to seize the opportunities presented by investors, customers and global jurisdictions.
Minister Stewart said the Government would partner with the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (AusIMM) to increase ESG capability, awareness and knowledge sharing within the state’s critical minerals sector.
He said $1 million would be invested in establishing a formal ESG Advisory Panel comprising representatives from government, industry, academia, and the community.
Work would also be done to review domestic and international trends in ESG, baseline the state’s critical minerals industry ESG capability, develop capability uplift strategies, tools and guidance materials, and establish an ESG industry excellence award.
Minister Stewart said responsible investment was a growing consideration as investors looked beyond financial performance to the sustainability and ethics of resource companies.
“Without a focus on building our ESG capability, our critical minerals industry risks falling behind global standards, losing competitive edge, and potentially facing barriers in international markets.”
AusIMM CEO Stephen Durkin said the partnership aimed to ensure Queensland’s critical minerals sector was not just globally competitive, but a global leader in ESG excellence.
“This is about creating a legacy of responsible resource development that delivers economic prosperity, environmental stewardship and enduring benefits for Queensland communities.”
Mr Durkin said the global race for critical minerals was intensifying and ESG capability would be key for Queensland’s competitive edge.
“This investment is not just about meeting standards, it’s about setting new benchmarks. By investing in resources professionals and lifting the sector’s ESG capabilities, we are placing Queensland at the forefront of responsible, sustainable, and future-focused resource development.
“ESG is not a constraint, it’s an advantage and an opportunity for growth. By building ESG excellence into the DNA of our critical minerals sector, we are creating a model for responsible resource development deliver by the highly skilled people who choose to pursue careers in our sector.”
