The State Government announced in the 2003-04 budget an allocation of 56.5 million dollars to further stimulate growth in Queensland's mining industries and improve health and safety procedures. My portfolio, the Department of Natural Resources and Mines (NR&M), will invest 28.2 million dollars to facilitate the growth of exploration and sustainable development of Queensland's mineral, petroleum and extractive resources while securing an appropriate economic return to the community. A further 28.3 million dollars will be invested to protect the health and safety of people involved in the mining, quarrying, explosives, petroleum and gas industries, and to focus on public safety associated with the use of gas and explosives, including fireworks. Mineral and petroleum exploration and development activities continue to contribute substantially to the Queensland economy and gross state product each year. During 2003-04, my department will further assess and promote the state's mineral and petroleum potential to attract more investment and industry development, and to improve services that underpin the safety of those involved in mining and associated industries.
NSTL
