The Federal and Queensland Governments are holding high-level discussions to find a long-term solution for Glencore’s Mount Isa copper smelter.
Federal Industry, Innovation and Science Minister Tim Ayres and Queensland Resources and Mines Minister Dale Last met with Glencore’s senior leadership on June 19 to discuss potential next steps for the Mount Isa operation.
The discussion follows sustained engagement from both governments aimed at securing a viable path forward for the smelter, which underpins thousands of jobs and plays a pivotal role in Queensland’s resource supply chain.
“The Queensland Government is engaging genuinely to deliver a solution that meets the expectations of all stakeholders, and we expect genuine engagement from Glencore in return,” Last said.
“Today’s discussions were frank and focused, with both the State and Federal Governments in lockstep seeking a constructive long-term solution.
“The Mount Isa copper smelter is a cornerstone of Queensland’s economy and supports the viability of nationally significant supply chain infrastructure like the Mount Isa to Townsville rail line and the Port of Townsville.”
The smelter is facing potential closure, prompting concerns about the downstream effects on Australia’s copper value chain and regional economies reliant on mining and processing operations.
“We can’t make decisions for Glencore,” Last said. “We are continuing to engage in good faith with Glencore, and we expect Glencore to do the same.”
Ayres said the Federal Government is closely monitoring the situation at the Mount Isa copper smelter and is committed to working with the Queensland Government to find the best path forward.
“As a vital industrial site for the Mount Isa community and the broader region, any closure of the Mount Isa copper smelter would have a detrimental impact on Australia’s sovereign capability and other facilities downstream that rely on the smelter,” Ayres said.
Both Last and Ayres will travel to the region to meet with community stakeholders and tour the mine, as efforts to safeguard the smelter’s future continue.