Mount Isa Transformation Study Progresses as Leaders Unite
Published on 18 February 2026
The next major step in securing a strong future for Mount Isa is underway, with Expressions of Interest now open for the delivery of the Mount Isa Transformation Study.
This announcement follows a highly productive Ministerial Roundtable held in Mount Isa this week, where industry leaders, government representatives, Traditional Owners, local businesses and community stakeholders came together to discuss a shared vision for the future of Mount Isa and the North West Minerals Province.
Mayor MacRae said the roundtable reinforced the region’s determination to build long‑term economic resilience and ensure Mount Isa remains a powerhouse for Queensland and Australia.
“Today’s roundtable made one thing clear, Mount Isa has the people, the capability and the ambition to shape its own future,” Mayor MacRae said. “The Transformation Study is a key part of our Future Ready Economy Roadmap, and the insights shared today will help guide the opportunities we pursue across industry, skills, jobs and regional development.”
The Transformation Study will assess the full copper value chain across the North West Minerals Province, including Mount Isa and Townsville, and consider opportunities at the smelter and refinery, across regional supply chains, and within emerging projects.
It will examine long‑term industrial capability, potential future pathways, market conditions, and broader opportunities for workers, communities and regional economies.
Completion of the study is a key milestone under the joint Queensland - Commonwealth support package for the Mount Isa Copper Smelter and Townsville Copper Refinery announced in October 2025. The package provides capital investment into Glencore’s copper processing facilities, alleviating immediate pressures so they can continue to benefit North and North West Queensland for decades to come.
The Mayor said the roundtable highlighted strong alignment between all levels of government and industry.
“We were pleased to welcome Senator the Hon Tim Ayres, Minister for Industry and Science, and the Hon Dale Last MP, Queensland Minister for Natural Resources and Mines,” the Mayor said. “Their commitment to Mount Isa and the North West Minerals Province is clear, and their support is vital as we chart a long‑term path for our region.”
Importantly, local working families, businesses, councils and community members will have many opportunities to contribute through a comprehensive stakeholder engagement process delivered jointly by both levels of government.
To participate in the Expressions of Interest, potential suppliers must be registered with a Queensland address on the Queensland Government’s VendorPanel Marketplace under the Engineering, Research and Technical Based Services category.
The Mayor also acknowledged the strong commitment shown by both levels of government.
“Mount Isa has been heard,” the Mayor said. “The message from Canberra and Brisbane is clear. They’re backing our workers, our industries, and our future. This study is proof of that commitment.”
The Mayor encouraged local businesses and stakeholders to stay engaged as the process unfolds.
“Mount Isa has always been a city of hard workers, innovators and problem‑solvers,” the Mayor said. “This is our chance to shape the next chapter of our story, and I’m confident our community will seize it.”