Flinders Shire welcomes historic CopperString budget boost

Published on 10 June 2026

Flinders Shire Council has welcomed the State Government’s record $3.2 billion budget commitment to CopperString, calling it a landmark victory for regional Queensland while encouraging the Federal Government to jump on board as a partner to fully unlock the project’s nation-building potential.

Mayor Kate Peddle called on the Albanese Government to partner with Queensland and contribute funding towards the project, recognising the increasing cost of major infrastructure projects across Australia.

“We understand the cost of delivering major infrastructure has increased significantly in recent years. That’s why we believe there is a strong case for the Federal Government to join the Queensland Government in delivering what is ultimately nation-building infrastructure,” Mayor Peddle said.

“CopperString is far bigger than a Queensland project. It strengthens Australia’s critical minerals industry, supports energy security, drives private investment and creates opportunities that will benefit the national economy.

"The Queensland Government has demonstrated its commitment, and we would welcome a similar commitment from Canberra to ensure this transformational project is delivered as quickly and effectively as possible.”

Mayor Peddle said today’s announcement showed the Crisafulli Government was demonstrating the importance of investing Queenslanders’ money into projects that create wealth, expand industry and unlock the state’s long-term economic potential.

“This is exactly the type of investment regional Queensland has been advocating for. Governments should be investing in infrastructure that builds industry, creates jobs and delivers lasting economic prosperity for future generations,” she said.

“Between our clean energy resources and our critical minerals, Queensland’s economic security will be delivered by North and North West Queensland, and CopperString is the infrastructure that makes that possible.”

Mayor Peddle thanked Premier David Crisafulli and Treasurer and Energy Minister David Janetzki for their continued commitment to the project, while acknowledging the patience shown by neighbouring councils across the CopperString corridor.

“Our communities have been hearing about CopperString for many years and there have certainly been times when people questioned whether it would ever happen. Today’s announcement should give communities renewed confidence that this project is moving from concept to construction," Mayor Peddle said.

“To the people of Flinders Shire and communities right across the North West, thank you for your patience. Good things really do come to those who wait.

“This announcement provides the certainty and confidence needed to support the planning, housing, workforce and economic development strategies that councils and communities along the corridor have been preparing for.”

Mayor Peddle said the massive investment would unlock opportunities that scale far beyond local shire borders.

“This project isn’t just important for Flinders Shire Council. The benefits will be felt right across the North West Minerals Province, creating opportunities for regional economic growth, investment, jobs and population growth for decades to come,” she said.

"North and North West Queensland already produce the minerals, agricultural products and energy that help drive the state’s economy. CopperString provides the missing link that will allow us to unlock even greater opportunities and compete on a global scale.”

Following a recent Texas energy delegation in Hughenden, followed by high-level meetings in Townsville and Brisbane, Mayor Peddle emphasised that robust transmission infrastructure is the single most critical factor in unlocking rural economic transformation.

However, she warned that with funding locked in, the focus must shift entirely to the project timeline.

“The Texas delegation showed us first-hand how rapid infrastructure deployment can transform rural economies, but certainty around timelines is critical,” Mayor Peddle said.

“We still don’t have firm construction dates, nor do we know who will ultimately build the line. I know myself and the other North West mayors will be working closely with Queensland Investment Corporation (QIC) and project stakeholders to better understand the construction program, workforce requirements and key milestones as they become available.

“Local governments, businesses and residents need the information necessary to prepare.”

Mayor Peddle said she remained committed to ensuring local communities were placed at the centre of future development opportunities and that the benefits of development flowed directly back into host communities.

“I am determined to ensure the Queensland Government’s initiatives to put communities at the heart of energy development deliver historic and lasting benefits for the Flinders Shire and communities across the CopperString corridor,” she said

“Our focus now is making sure local businesses, local workers and local communities are positioned to maximise the opportunities that CopperString will create. Today’s announcement is the confidence boost regional Queensland has been waiting for.

“The conversation now shifts from whether CopperString will happen, to ensuring our communities are ready to maximise the opportunities it will create.”