Supporting Mount Isa's transition and future growth
The Queensland Government is working with industry and local communities to help Mount Isa navigate a period of change, strengthen the regional economy and create new opportunities for future growth and investment.
Through a joint support package of up to $600 million, the Queensland and Australian governments are providing immediate support for the continued operation of the Mount Isa Copper Smelter and Townsville Copper Refinery—nationally significant assets that underpin Australia’s copper supply chain and support thousands of jobs across North West Queensland.
A further $160 million jointly funded loan facility has been provided to secure the ongoing operations of the Phosphate Hill fertiliser facility.
An independent study will examine the future of the copper value chain across Mount Isa and Townsville, assessing industrial capability and market conditions, enabling infrastructure and long-term opportunities for these strategic assets. Local workers, businesses and communities will help shape this work through consultation and engagement.
Long-term investments such as CopperString are also laying the foundations for regional growth. By connecting the North West Minerals Province to the National Electricity Market, CopperString will improve energy reliability, unlock new critical minerals developments and support emerging industries across the region.
By combining immediate support with long-term investment and planning, the Queensland Government is helping secure Mount Isa’s economic future and strengthening the North West as a globally significant resources and industrial region.
- Last updated
- 29 July 2026
- Last reviewed
- 28 July 2026