Glencore executives have used a community information session to reinforce Mount Isa and Townsville’s ongoing role in company operations, with planned capital expenditure of $2.5 billion in the region over the next six years.

That includes a $720 million investment in George Fisher mine, which has a mine life to at least 2042, to ramp up zinc, lead and silver production.

And the $1 billion Black Star Open Cut (BSOC) project, if approved for final investment, could provide about 300-400 jobs over a 10-20 year mine life.

The community forum in Mount Isa came within days of Glencore copping criticism for turning to overseas recruitment to help fill 120 skilled positions in the mining city.

The region has suffered a period of upheaval, with the closure of Glencore’s Mount Isa copper mining operations last year and a $600 million government bailout for the company’s Mount Isa copper smelter and Townsville refinery.

Related: Unions roast Glencore over foreign recruitment bid

The company said copper smelter and refinery continued to face challenging market conditions and sustain financial losses even with government assistance, because of further deterioration in global smelting market conditions and shortages in available copper concentrates.

“We are continuing to navigate one of the most significant periods of transition in MIM’s operational history. I want to recognise the incredible resilience and commitment of our workforce,” Glencore Metals Australia chief operating officer Troy Wilson said.

“Our operations have changed, but what has not changed is our shared goal to build a strong and sustainable future for our business, our people and the surrounding communities.

“We are focused on working safely and responsibly and investing in our operations, which remain a strategic and economic cornerstone of Queensland.”