Maranoa Regional Council, Queensland, has signed a landmark agreement with coal seam gas producer, Australia-Pacific LNG (APLNG), that will see a number of fly-in fly-out workers transitioned to live locally, providing a welcomed boost to the Maranoa’s population and economy by an estimated $10 million each year.
Councillor for Local Business, David Schefe, said the agreement was a significant milestone for the Maranoa and a pivotal turning point in Council’s relationship with one of the region’s largest resource companies – APLNG.
Cr Schefe said the agreement would deliver to the region population growth, increased housing demand and local business activity, with each new local household helping to generate another .3 of a job in the local economy.
“Once all the agreed workers are transitioned to living locally, it is estimated that the Maranoa’s economy will be boosted by $10 million each year.
“The additional funding during the transition process will enable us to improve our community’s liveability and offset any impacts during the transition process.
“The short term stay policy will help to increase patronage to our local accommodation providers, therefore helping to boost their bottom line in the current difficult times.
“This agreement will deliver positive outcomes for our communities for many years into the future.”
Origin APLNG’s General Manager Spring Gully, Denison, & Pipelines Asset, Dave Atkin said the agreement included new community investment funding of $2.5 million over the next two years.
Minister for State Development Cameron Dick said Queensland’s independent Coordinator-General oversaw negotiations between Origin and Maranoa Regional Council that resulted in the agreement to phase out established worker camps.
“The terms of the agreement will also enhance liveability and will go a long way to creating a stronger and more sustainable community.
