Mining impacts and the development of the Moranbah township
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[Extract] Executive Summary 1.This report contains an overview of research into the economic and social impacts of mining on the Moranbah community and options for future development. 2.The mining boom has stimulated a population increase in Moranbah, as well as a large non-resident workforce (estimated at 4,000 people). The 'core' workforce for mines within 50 kilometres of Moranbah is expected to grow by a further 1,390 people by 2010. It has been estimated that there is potential for the town to grow by another 2,700permanent residents over the next five years. 3.Key needs that currently exist for the community include improved shopping and services, a more reliable water supply, lower cost housing, and a larger labour pool. 4.Key issues for the community in options for future development include the extent of workcamp accommodation, the security of water supplies, the price of rentals and housing, and the potential environmental impacts of future mining close to town. 5.Moranbah residents preferred the development of housing rather than work camps in their community; this value has been assessed at $3,144 per year. Respondents indicated that they would reduce their length of stay in Moranbah by 2.6 years if work camp development went from a low base to a high level of development. 6.Having a satisfactory buffer against future environmental impacts of mine development was the next most important issue. The value of avoiding future impacts was assessed at $494 per household per year. 7.The average number of years that residents expected to stay in Moranbah was approximately 8.5 years. Almost no resident planned to move to another mining town when they left Moranbah. 8.At least 80% of the non-resident workforce indicated that they did not want to live permanently in Moranbah. Key reasons related to partner and family commitments, and to preferences for living in a larger centre. 9.Mackay residents were asked about potential relocation to communities such as Moranbah. Results showed that for the average Mackay person to move to a mining town, a salary premium of $55,000 is required. A higher premium is needed to attract people to live in smaller communities. Key factors that are important in the choice of communities are the level of health and education services, availability of jobs for partners and children, and the standard of public infrastructure. 10.The level of economic activity in Moranbah is slightly lower than in other comparable towns, suggesting that there are large spending leakages from the community.
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29
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Centre for Environmental Management, Central Queensland University
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Rockhampton, QLD, Australia
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