Project Overview

Gladstone Overview

The areas encompassed by Gladstone and Calliope are major economic engines within the local economy. Covering an area of 6,710 square kilometres, the local government areas of Gladstone and Calliope make a disproportionately large contribution to the Australian and Queensland economies. In value terms this sub-region accounts for approximately 17.9% of the nation’s exports and 19.3% of Queensland’s international trade. This area possesses an international advantage as a resource processing, metals smelting and light metals founding location. It has the advantage of a location that is adjacent to a significant coal based energy province whilst also possessing a world class port. Reliable competitively priced electricity is available from the Queensland electricity grid, to which Gladstone supplies in excess of 30% of the State’s usage. The area is also serviced with natural gas.

Whilst the area’s economy is principally based on industrial development, tourism, agriculture, forestry and fishing make a significant contribution. Tourism is an important and growing industry, with industrial tourism (i.e. business travellers) a developing opportunity. Coastal attractions include the diving mecca of Heron Island and easy access to the most southerly part of the Great Barrier Reef.

The sub-region had an estimated resident population of 47,407 people as at 30 June 2001 and has a projected resident population of 66,999 at 30 June 2021.