examining the evidence base around the coal sector’s outlook and its implications for future regional jobs, investment and economic stability.
Chief Executive Officer Ms Kylie Porter said the report underscores the region’s ongoing economic strength, while highlighting the importance of preparing for economic change.
Ms Porter said while the demand outlook for metallurgical coal remains steady, declining capital expenditure and investment in coal and other minerals activity in Queensland are structural signals that warrant close attention.
“This report confirms what our community understands well, the coal sector continues to be the economic engine room of the Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday economy,” Ms Porter said.
“The report also models several future scenarios should the region experience a decline in direct coal sector employment or a reduction in local supplier spending, and the results are revealing.”
The report revealed a 10% reduction in direct coal jobs, will result in an estimated loss of 2,404 jobs and $291.6 million in lost gross value added, whilst a 10% reduction in supply chain spending will impact the regional economy $945.8 million in lost gross value added.
“These scenarios are not certain predictions, but they are important indicators that show that any contraction in the sector will have significant flow-on effects to local families, businesses and communities.”
Across the full economy, the coal sector supported:
- $7.1 billion in direct spending by the coal sector in the Mackay region.
- 10,593 direct employees living in the region, earning $1.7 billion in wages.
- 1,865 local businesses supplied goods and services to the sector.
- $12.5 billion in gross value added generated across the total economy.
- 62,364 jobs supported in total. [
- Sector contributed 48.6% of GRP. About the Report
Ms Porter said understanding the scale of future trends is critical to informed regional planning.
“As the economic heart of Queensland’s resources sector, our region relies on clear, factual and data driven insights.
“This report gives us that clarity and it reinforces the importance of safeguarding both our existing economic strengths and our future opportunities.”
Coal and the Regional Economy: Greater Whitsunday Scenario Modelling report was drawn from the Economic Impact of the Coal Sector on the Mackay Region 2024/25 report, prepared by Lawrence Consulting for Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3). It provides detailed analysis of direct spending, indirect impacts, total industry contribution and scenario-based modelling on potential changes to employment and supplier spend.
