The mining industry is the largest generator of jobs in Queensland with more than 130,000 jobs being created directly and indirectly by the industry in the last year in Brisbane alone, according to a Queensland Resources Council report released this week. The Queensland mining industry has also generated around $3.8 billion in income tax in the last financial year as well.
Not surprising when the industry generates over 300,000 jobs in the state. With a generation of $50 billion it also accounts for something like 21% of the state’s economy. The economy is also helped by almost $17.4 billion being spent in Queensland by miners on local goods and services besides some voluntary community contributions.
The financial figures may be astounding but they do not please everyone. The farmers and environmentalists have been trying to curb the mining industry over fears of destruction of land and underground water reserves.
The pollution of groundwater by mining activities and prime agricultural land being handed over to prospecting activities being prime bones of contention between the land owners and the mining companies.