Queensland Resources Council chief executive Michael Roche said government forecasts indicated that minerals and energy production would continue to underpin the strength of Queensland’s economic performance and budget outlook.

“Queensland’s budget position will benefit directly from $1.5 billion in minerals and energy production royalties next financial year,” Roche said.

He said it was a record return to the people of Queensland, whose economic outlook was also brightened by the resources sector’s contribution to growth in employment, exports and business investment.

“It should also be noted by taxpayers that the resources sector will effectively fund a large part of the state’s capital program for rail, port and water infrastructure through user charges,” he said.

Roche said that if the minerals and energy sector was to sustain its critical support role for the Queensland economy, state government attention should stay focused on the effective delivery of services to regional Queensland.

“Mining communities need a strong commitment from the record health budget to address healthcare deficiencies. Liveable mining communities are critical to our ability to attract and retain the services of skilled employees.”

Responding to other elements of the 2006-07 state budget, Roche urged a stronger government focus on encouraging mineral exploration, describing a four-year $20 million program as a “first instalment” in reviving Queensland’s reputation as an exploration province of choice.

He also urged that a strong flow of additional trade training places be directed towards trades relevant to the resources sector and support industries; and welcomed budget confirmation of up to $300 million under the Future Growth Fund to support the development of new technologies to mitigate climate change effects and promote clean coal technology.