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Local Content

Queensland’s resource companies buy locally to reduce costs, to build supply chain capability, to access innovative solutions and to strengthen local support for their project.

Our members prioritise the regional communities they call home. Through initiatives like the Queensland Resources and Energy Sector Code of Practice for Local Content, we ensure fair opportunities for local suppliers and showcase best practice for the sector.

three people in high-vis observing construction

Local suppliers are essential to the success of Queensland’s resources industry. Supporting local businesses is positive for regional economies. It creates jobs and helps communities grow, and builds trust with the local community by using local products and services.

In 2023-24, the sector spent $35.5 billion with 17,028 businesses located in Queensland. Since QRC began measuring expenditure in 2009-10, the Queensland resources sector has purchased $382 billion in goods and services from suppliers in Queensland.

The Queensland Resources and Energy Sector Code of Practice for Local Content 2013 (the Code) is an industry-led initiative. Compliance with the voluntary Code is strongly encouraged among members of the QRC. 

QRC is responsible for administering the Code, which encourages resource companies to: 

  • Implement the principle of ‘full, fair and reasonable’ opportunity for local suppliers to tender for work and supply the industry. 
  • Assist QRC in completing the annual Code Effectiveness Report.

QRC supports the Queensland Local Content Leader’s Network (QLCLN). The Network is a collective of regional local government, industry and economic development representatives from the Bowen, Galilee, and Surat Basins. 

Resources

2024 Local Content Report (Code Effectiveness Report)

Queensland Resources and Energy Sector Code of Practice for Local Content (2013)

External link

2023 Local Content Report (Code Effectiveness Report)

Queensland Resources and Energy Sector Code of Practice for Local Content (2013)

External link

2022 Local Content Report (Code Effectiveness Report)

Queensland Resources and Energy Sector Code of Practice for Local Content (2013)

External Link

2021 Local Content Report (Code Effectiveness Report)

Queensland Resources and Energy Sector Code of Practice for Local Content (2013)

External Link

2020 Code Effectiveness Report

Queensland Resources and Energy Sector Code of Practice for Local Content (2013)

PDF

2019 Code Effectiveness Report

Queensland Resources and Energy Sector Code of Practice for Local Content (2013)

PDF

Joint Statement of Commitment: Maximising Industry Local Content in Regional Queensland

Maximising Industry Local Content in Regional Queensland, July 2016

PDF

Code Effectiveness Reports

Includes 2013, 2014 and 2015

Queensland Resources and Energy Sector Code of Practice for Local Content (2013)

The Code

PDF

Queensland Resources and Energy Sector Code of Practice for Local Content (2013) Implementation Guideline

Implementation Guideline

PDF

Frequently asked questions

Does the code have support from the resources sector, state government, and supplier groups?

Yes. Endorsed by the QRC Board on 15 February 2013, the state government, and consulted with supplier groups.

Who will administer the code?

The QRC secretariat will manage the voluntary, self-regulatory code. They will facilitate an annual forum, promote the code, and produce an annual Code Effectiveness Report, guided by the Code Steering Committee and QRC Board.

What is the timeline for the main actions?

Key dates:

  • 30 September (annually): QRC member companies submit Code Industry Reports.
  • Mid November (annually): QRC hosts Local Industry Participation Forum and produces a progress report with recommendations.
  • Year-end (annually): Public release of the Code Effectiveness Report.
  • End 2015: Formal review of the code.

Who does the code apply to, and what happens from 1 March 2013?

The code applies to significant resources and energy projects undergoing Queensland Government’s EIS processes. From 1 March 2013, these agencies will seek adherence to the code. The QRC will encourage compliance and support administrative preparations.

Why is the code better than regulation for promoting local content in resource projects?

The code improves information sharing, provides feedback mechanisms, reduces regulation, enhances reporting and engagement, and offers formal communication channels for supplier groups.

Does compliance with the code also satisfy Australian Government’s local content obligations?

Yes. Compliance with the AIPP and completing a Code Industry Report will meet the code’s requirements.