Queensland Approves $1 Billion Fitzroy to Gladstone Pipeline, Unlocking New Jobs in Renewable Hydrogen and Manufacturing

$1 Billion Fitzroy to Gladstone Pipeline Project Approved by Palaszczuk Government

The Palaszczuk Labor Government has approved the $1 billion Fitzroy to Gladstone pipeline project, which will create 400 local jobs during construction and secure water for existing industries. The project is expected to be completed by late 2026.

The Fitzroy to Gladstone Pipeline will provide much-needed water security to the Gladstone region, supporting more job-creating industries. Currently, Gladstone's industry generates $6 billion in gross regional product annually, and these activities depend on significant quantities of water now and in the future.

The approval of the Fitzroy to Gladstone pipeline aligns with recommendations made in the Bradfield Report, commissioned by the Palaszczuk Labor Government and prepared by the expert Bradfield Regional Assessment and Development Panel.

The Fitzroy to Gladstone Pipeline: Supporting Hydrogen and Renewables Sector in Gladstone

The 117-kilometer pipeline will run from the Lower Fitzroy River in Rockhampton and connect to Gladstone Area Water Board's existing water network at Yarwun, supporting the emerging hydrogen and renewables sector set to expand in Gladstone. Several companies have expressed interest in moving to the region, including the Fortescue Future Industries hydrogen electrolyzer manufacturing facility, Mitsubishi Gas's proposal for a hydrogen to green methanol plant, the Stanwell / Iwatani Central Queensland Hydrogen Project, Orica and H2U's proposed green ammonia plant, and Rio Tinto and Sumitomo's proposed hydrogen plant.

Fitzroy to Gladstone Pipeline to Provide Water Security and Boost Jobs in Queensland

The project is expected to provide more than 25 apprenticeships and traineeships, as well as over 10,000 hours of training. Additionally, the project anticipates spending approximately $10 million with suppliers and businesses owned by First Nations Australians, in addition to 10,000 hours for workforce participation.

Job Opportunities and Training Provided by Fitzroy to Gladstone Pipeline Project

By delivering water security to the region, the Fitzroy to Gladstone pipeline project unlocks job opportunities in manufacturing and renewable hydrogen. It also sends a powerful signal to the hydrogen sector that Queensland is the place to be for clean energy.

Queensland Government's Commitment to Clean Energy Industrial Revolution

Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said, "My government is committed to building the infrastructure Queensland needs to support good jobs in new industries during the clean energy industrial revolution. Nearly $1 billion has been committed to this important project, which guarantees water security and sends a powerful signal to the hydrogen sector that Queensland is the place to be for clean energy. Gladstone will be the engine room when it comes to delivering our landmark Queensland Energy and Jobs Plan – that means good secure jobs now, and into the future."

Treasurer and Minister for Trade and Investment Cameron Dick added, "The Palaszczuk Government's contribution towards this vital infrastructure for Central Queensland is the first investment from our new progressive coal royalty tiers. This revenue was generated in Central Queensland, and as we promised, it will be invested in regional Queensland."

Water Minister and Member for Gladstone, Glenn Butcher, said, "The Fitzroy to Gladstone Pipeline is clear evidence the Palaszczuk Government is serious about listening to experts and taking action to ensure water security in Queensland. This pipeline will also allow Gladstone to access their water allocation from Rookwood Weir, which we know means security in good jobs and the delivery of safe and reliable water services to enhance the liveability of our region."

Fitzroy to Gladstone Pipeline Project: Investing in Regional Queensland and Water Security

In conclusion, the approval of the Fitzroy to Gladstone pipeline project is a significant step towards securing water for existing industries and unlocking job opportunities in renewable hydrogen and manufacturing. It also sends a powerful signal to the hydrogen sector that Queensland is the place to be for clean energy.