Queensland Resources Council (QRC) has appointed its new Chief Executive, following the departure of Michael Roche after more than a decade of leadership.
Former Minister for Resources Ian Macfarlane will now take on the position.
The Australian Petroleum Production and Exploration Association (APPEA) welcomed Mr Macfarlane’s appointment.
“APPEA is delighted to see Ian Macfarlane return to the resources industry in this important role. Ian is universally respected in the industry for his contribution as Australia’s longest serving Minister for Resources and Energy,” APPEA chairman Bruce Lake said.
“Ian has always been a forthright champion for the resources sector. He understands how the wealth created by the sector produces opportunities for all Australians, especially in regional Queensland.
“Ian is a pragmatist who can be trusted to find the common ground which will bring people together. As a politician, he had the rare reputation of being someone focused on results, not headlines.
Mr Lake said Mr Mcfarlane will bring to the QRC a wealth of experience – as a farmer, an agri-political leader, a member of parliament and a minister.
“The resources industry in Queensland faces many challenges. APPEA looks forward to working again with Ian Macfarlane in his new role, leading the Queensland Resources Counci,” Mr Lake said.
Minister for Resources and Northern Australia Matt Canavan also welcomed the appointment and said Mr Mcfarlane would be a strong successor to Michael Roche.
“Ian Macfarlane has a depth of knowledge from his time as Australia’s longest-serving resources minister and a track record of policy making and public advocacy to strengthen both the resources industry as well as the communities that rely upon it,” Mr Canavan said.
“His time in the portfolio was characterised by a bipartisan approach to reach across the political aisle to the benefit of the sector and I welcome his appointment as another strong voice for the Queensland resources industry.
“I look forward to working with Ian to further strengthen Queensland’s resources sector.”
Mr Canavan also congratulated outgoing Chief Executive Michael Roche on his achievements during 11 years leading the QRC.
“During those years the sector has undergone one of the most significant transformations in its history,” Mr Canavan said.
“Michael has been an assured and effective leader, having steered the sector through both boom times and challenges. I wish him all the best for his future.
“The Australian resources sector underpins the national economy and Queensland is one of our powerhouse states. The Australian Government will continue to put in place policies that drive our prosperity and encourage investment and jobs growth in this sector.”
