Expressions of interest have opened for the delivery of the Mount Isa Transformation Study, aimed at supporting the region’s long-term economic and industrial future.
The study represents a key milestone under a joint Queensland and Federal Government support package for the Mount Isa Copper Smelter and Townsville Copper Refinery announced in October 2025.
Both levels of government have committed to a comprehensive stakeholder engagement process, providing opportunities for local residents, businesses, councils and community organisations to contribute throughout the study.
The study will assess the full copper value chain across the North West Minerals Province, including Mount Isa and Townsville, examining opportunities at the copper smelter and refinery, regional supply chains and emerging projects.
It will consider long-term industrial capability, future development pathways, market conditions and broader opportunities for workers, communities and regional economies.
The package includes capital investment in Glencore’s copper processing facilities to address immediate operational pressures and support long-term regional benefits.
Potential suppliers seeking to participate in the expressions of interest process must be registered with a Queensland address on the Queensland Government’s VendorPanel Marketplace in the Engineering, Research and Technical Based Services category.
Federal Minister for Industry and Innovation and Minister for Science, Tim Ayres, said the study would support informed long-term planning.
“By assessing the full copper value chain across the region, this work will help inform sound government and industry decisions beyond the current support period,” Ayres said.
“The study will examine future pathways not just for industry, but for workers, communities and regional economies.”
Queensland Minister for Natural Resources and Mines, Dale Last, said the study would provide greater certainty for the regional workforce.
“We’re charting a long-term path that protects jobs and keeps Queensland at the forefront of copper and critical minerals processing,” Last said.
“At the heart of this work are the skilled workers and small businesses who rely on a strong copper processing sector.”
The findings will contribute to future policy and investment decisions across the North West Minerals Province.
