The commitment to invest $300 million in the continuing development of clean coal technology was announced by state Premier Peter Beattie and Treasurer Anna Bligh.

“This latest vote of confidence in the long-term future of the coal industry means that there is now in excess of one billion dollars available in Australia to support the goal of zero greenhouse gas emissions from coal-fired electricity generation,” QRC chief Michael Roche said.

“The Australian black coal industry’s commitment in March of $300 million towards the demonstration of clean coal technologies has now been matched by the Queensland Government, and complements funding from the Federal Government totalling $500 million.

“I believe you would be hard pressed to find anywhere else in the world where such a vibrant partnership has been formed to support the development of technologies to combat climate change,” he added.

The QRC also welcomed Queensland government commitments to boost water supply capacity in southern and central Queensland, saying expanding the potential for extra water from the Fitzroy River will give resources sector companies the opportunity to plan ahead with additional confidence.