Brisbane – A global powerhouse in energy and resources
Published by Will Owen,
Editor
Global Mining Review,
As Brisbane prepares to host the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, the city is set to showcase its capabilities beyond sport, highlighting expertise and innovation across key industries, including its global reputation as a hub for energy and resources. With the Queensland Government investing over AUS$62 billion in the energy transition, Brisbane is solidifying its leadership in the sector.
In 2022 – 2023, mining was Queensland’s largest industry, valued at AUS$86.5 billion. The state’s rich resources, including cobalt, vanadium, and rare earth elements, position it as a global leader in the energy transition, supplying materials for batteries, aerospace alloys, and energy storage.
World-class research in energy and resources
Brisbane is home to leading institutions conducting research across the energy lifecycle, from exploration to environmental management. The Queensland Centre for Advanced Technologies hosts CSIRO-operated groups like the Gas Industry Social and Environmental Research Alliance and the Minerals Resources Group.
The University of Queensland (UQ) and Griffith University drive sustainable energy research, with UQ’s Sustainable Minerals Institute focusing on ethical resource supply and Griffith’s Centre for Catalysis and Clean Energy pioneering materials science. Queensland University of Technology (QUT) complements this with advancements in low-emissions systems at its Centre for Clean Energy Technologies and Practices.
Brisbane also hosts the Queensland Government’s Safety in Mines Testing and Research Station, known for world-leading mining safety solutions.
A quantum leap in computing
Brisbane is Australia’s quantum computing hub, hosting two of the nation’s four Quantum Centres of Excellence. The sector, projected to reach AUS$2.2 billion by 2030, is spearheaded by PsiQuantum, which is set to build the world’s first commercial-scale fault-tolerant quantum computer in the city.
Excellence in Mining Equipment, Technology, and Services (METS)
Brisbane is home to the world’s largest METS cluster, with over 500 companies offering advanced solutions across coal, oil, gas, and minerals sectors. From mineral processing to digital productivity solutions, METS companies play a critical role in advancing industry innovation.
Attracting global energy and resources events
Brisbane’s expertise in energy and resources makes it a compelling destination for international business events. Its strong base of local delegates, extensive aviation networks, and proximity to the Asia Pacific region attract major energy and resources companies and events.
The city’s research facilities and corporations provide expert speakers, innovative technical tours, and opportunities for collaboration. Events in this sector also spotlight Brisbane’s leadership in sustainability and clean energy transitions.
Recent event success stories
In 2023, Brisbane hosted the 26th World Mining Congress (WMC), attracting over 3500 participants from around the globe. With the theme ‘Resourcing Tomorrow: Creating Value for Society’, the event featured 15 plenary speakers, 300 technical discussions, and a 15 000 m2 exhibition. The Congress, hosted by CSIRO, marked its first appearance in Australia in 60 years and was held at the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre (BCEC), following a successful joint bid by BCEC, Brisbane Economic Development Agency (BEDA), and key government and academic partners.
In 2024, the Asia Pacific Hydrogen Summit & Exhibition brought over 3000 leaders to Brisbane, showcasing the latest hydrogen advancements and fostering collaboration. Other notable events include the 8th International Conference on Sustainable Energy Engineering (2024), the Critical Minerals Conference (2024), and the Energy Networks Conference & Exhibition (2022).
City support for business events
Brisbane Economic Development Agency (BEDA) provides comprehensive support for business events, connecting event planners with local experts, technical tour opportunities, and industry leaders.
BEDA General Manager of Tourism, Business, and Major Events, Lorelle Chittick, emphasised the value of these connections:
“BEDA’s holistic support networks streamline connections with business leaders, government, and academia, ensuring event planners have access to everything they need for a successful event.”
BEDA also facilitates introductions to venues, accommodation, and service partners, further enhancing Brisbane’s appeal as a business events destination.
Plan your next event in Brisbane
To learn more about Brisbane’s industry expertise and start planning your event, click here.
Article sponsored by Brisbane Economic Development Agency in partnership with Business Events Australia
Read the article online at: https://www.globalminingreview.com/special-reports/29012025/brisbane-a-global-powerhouse-in-energy-and-resources/
You might also like
The progress and promise of hybrids in mining
Decarbonising mining is challenging. While electric and hydrogen solutions show promise, they are still in development and not yet reliable for heavy equipment in demanding environments due to tough conditions and varying infrastructure across regions.
