More jobs in renewable hydrogen and manufacturing are expected to be created in Central Queensland, with the construction of a new $983 million water pipeline that will run from Fitzroy to Gladstone.
Hydrogen proponents that will benefit from the 117-km pipeline project include the Fortescue Future Industries hydrogen electrolyser manufacturing facility, Mitsubishi Gas’ proposal for a hydrogen-to-green methanol plant, the Stanwell/Iwatani Central Queensland Hydrogen Project, Orica and H2U’s proposed green ammonia plant, and Rio Tinto and Sumitomo’s proposed hydrogen plant.
The Queensland government appointed the Gladstone Area Water Board in 2021 to conduct pre-construction activities for the pipeline, which included procurement activities, addressing land access arrangements, and determining long lead time items to ensure construction readiness for the pipeline.
“As the Delivery Authority for the project, we look forward to partnering with local suppliers to deliver tangible benefits to the Gladstone region such as jobs, supply contracts and local capability raising,” said Darren Barlow, chief executive officer for the Gladstone Area Water Board.
Work on the pipeline project has already begun and is expected to be completed in late 2026.
Glenn Butcher, water minister and member for Gladstone, said the pipeline will support the emerging hydrogen and renewables sector that is set to expand in Gladstone.
“This pipeline will also allow Gladstone to access their water allocation from Rookwood Weir, which we know means security in good jobs and the delivery of safe and reliable water services to enhance the liveability of our region,” Butcher said.
Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said the lucrative project will guarantee water security in the state and “sends a powerful signal to the hydrogen sector that Queensland is the place to be for clean energy.”
“Gladstone will be the engine room when it comes to delivering our landmark Queensland Energy and Jobs Plan – that means good secure jobs now, and into the future,” Palaszczuk said.
Approval for the massive pipeline project aligns with recommendations made in the Bradfield Report, which was commissioned by the Palaszczuk government and prepared by the Bradfield Regional Assessment and Development Panel.
