Flinders Shire Mayor Kate Peddle has called for clear, timely decisions regarding the CopperString power transmission project in the wake of the State Government unveiling a new approach for its delivery.

Cr Peddle was commenting after being briefed on key updates regarding the project, including the decision to proceed with construction to the east first, the appointment of the Queensland Investment Corporation (QIC) to partner with Powerlink, and a delayed construction timeline now set for early 2026.

“While I welcome the government’s attention to the project, our local businesses, major proponents, and stakeholders all need certainty and confidence to move forward,” Cr Peddle said.

“We cannot afford to let more delays undermine the economic future of our community. Local contractors and businesses, many of whom have already committed resources, need clear direction.

“They need to know exactly how they can continue their work on this project and when they will see financial commitments from the government. It’s critical to keep the momentum going.”

Member for Traeger Robbie Katter has been an outspoken critic of Powerlink’s performance in the delivery of CopperString.

He viewed the involvement of the QIC as positive both in terms of exposing ‘the incompetence of Powerlink to date’ and, more importantly, progressing construction so that new mines in the North-West Minerals Province had the confidence to invest in the region.

Townsville Enterprise also welcomed ‘a positive restructure’ to ensure a clear path forward.

“The appointment of QIC brings some assurances and opens the door to private investment; however, we must urge government and their appointed delivery partners, that there be no further delays,” chief executive officer Claudia Brumme-Smith said.

“CopperString remains the single-most important enabling project in the North with over 50 per cent of our $42 billion investment pipeline hinging on CopperString being delivered between Townsville and Mount Isa by 2029.

“Our message is clear – we need this infrastructure and we cannot afford any further delays. As we have said from the start, CopperString is vital in keeping our smelters and refineries operating post 2029, and enabling new industries such as solar and windfarms, new copper mines such as Harmony Gold and others to have confidence to invest here in the North.

“It’s also important to support the manufacturing in Townsville with five new green refineries being proposed – the confidence in CopperString is crucial.”