Joint effort to secure Mount Isa copper smelter
The Federal and Queensland Governments are working to secure the future of Glencore’s Mount Isa copper smelter. Federal Minister for Industry, Innovation and Science Tim Ayres and Queensland Minister for Resources and Mines Dale Last met with Glencore’s senior leadership on 19 June. The meeting formed part of a coordinated strategy to explore a long-term solution for the smelter and its associated infrastructure.
Mount Isa vital to Queensland economy
The Mount Isa copper smelter underpins thousands of jobs and supports North and North-West Queensland economies. It also plays a key role in critical infrastructure such as the Mount Isa to Townsville rail line and the Port of Townsville. Dale Last stated the Queensland Government remains committed to finding a solution that works for all parties. “The Queensland Government is engaging genuinely to deliver a solution that meets the expectations of all stakeholders, and we expect genuine engagement from Glencore in return,” Last said.
Figure 1: Glencore’s Mount Isa Copper Mine
Governments maintain firm stance on accountability
Dale Last highlighted the importance of shared accountability and transparency throughout the process. “Today’s discussions were frank and focused, with both the State and Federal Governments in lockstep seeking a constructive long-term solution,” Last said. He reiterated the smelter’s strategic importance within Queensland’s supply chain. “The Mount Isa copper smelter is a cornerstone of Queensland’s economy and supports the viability of nationally significant supply chain infrastructure like the Mount Isa to Townsville rail line and the Port of Townsville,” he said. However, he added that the final decision rests with Glencore. “But we can’t make decisions for Glencore. We are continuing to engage in good faith with Glencore, and we expect Glencore to do the same,” Last said.
Figure 2: Mount Isa is home to about 20,000 residents
Federal Government joins state-level support
The Federal Government is monitoring the smelter’s future and is working closely with Queensland authorities. Tim Ayres confirmed the importance of joint collaboration between both levels of government. “The Australian Government is closely monitoring the situation at the Mount Isa copper smelter and we are committed to working with the Queensland Government on the best path forward,” Ayres said. He underscored the smelter’s wider role in national supply chains and regional economies. “As a vital industrial site for the Mount Isa community and the broader region, any closure of the Mount Isa copper smelter would have a detrimental impact on Australia’s sovereign capability and other facilities downstream that rely on the smelter,” Ayres said.
On-ground engagement and regional visits planned
Both Ministers are travelling to Mount Isa to meet with stakeholders and community representatives. Their visit includes a site tour of the Mount Isa mine, which operates alongside the copper smelter. Ayres noted the value of direct engagement with affected workers and local leaders. “It’s good to be here on the ground in Queensland to work closely with the Queensland Government and hear directly from workers and industry to ensure we have a common foundation from which to continue working,” he said.
Concerns mount over potential closure
The copper smelter is facing a risk of closure, prompting urgency in negotiations between governments and Glencore. Concerns are growing over the potential downstream effects on Australia’s copper processing industry. Regional communities remain heavily reliant on the smelter’s operations for employment and economic stability. A closure could undermine sovereign capability and infrastructure investment across Queensland. The smelter forms part of a broader value chain, including copper mining, refining and export.
Next steps under discussion
Government engagement with Glencore remains ongoing, with more discussions expected in coming weeks. The coordinated approach reflects the economic significance of the Mount Isa operation and associated logistics infrastructure. While Glencore has yet to commit to future investment, both Ministers signalled the importance of securing a viable solution. The outcome of these talks may influence long-term resource policy and investment strategy across Queensland and Australia.
