29 Mar 2017
Michael Gunner
Chief Minister of the Northern Territory
More than 650 construction and operations jobs could be created following the awarding of Major Project Status to KGL Resources Limited’s $190 million Jervois Copper-Silver-Gold Project.
Chief Minister Michael Gunner today announced the signing of the Project Facilitation Agreement (PFA) between the NT Government and KGL, who would run the project about 270km north-east of Alice Springs.
“The Territory Labor Government is restoring trust in Government by creating jobs including helping facilitate the development of major projects such as KGL’s Jervois Copper-Silver-Gold Project,” Mr Gunner said.
“This project has the potential to create 360 jobs during construction, over an 18 month period, and 300 on-going jobs once operational, over a 12-year plus period.
“We recognise the significance and potential the project could provide for the Territory. Major Projects create employment opportunities for Territorians and develop new business opportunities within the Territory.
Mr Gunner said today’s announcement provided a positive note following the Federal Government brutal and unfair $2 billion cuts to Territory funding.
“The Federal Government need to put its money where its mouth is and support Developing The North as there is so much potential here but also many issues to address,” he said.
“It’s projects such as KGL Resources Limited’s $190 million Copper Project - and two other mining projects awarded Major Project Status in the past month - that should fill Territorians will hope that we do have a bright future.”
The mine would produce a copper concentrate and a lead/zinc concentrate.
Construction could begin as early as late 2018, with an Environmental Impact Statement scheduled to be submitted early next year.
Resources Minister Ken Vowles attended the Annual Geoscience Exploration Seminar (AGES) - the Territory’s premier exploration event and a key element of the Government’s efforts to attract and support resources exploration - in Alice Springs, where the announcement was made today.
“This Government recognises the importance of the mineral and resources sectors as vital contributors to our economy, creating jobs for Territorians,” Mr Vowles said.
“This Project will maximise business opportunities, local employment, training and Indigenous development opportunities.”
Media Contact: Cameron Angus 0404 021 192