Queensland’s leaders must act now to secure a biofuels future

As Premier Steven Miles and Opposition Leader David Crisafulli prepare for their final debate before election day, one critical question remains unanswered: will they commit to the investments and policies needed to launch agriculture into a new biofuels industry, which could create thousands of regional jobs and add billions to the state’s economy?

For over 150 years, Queensland’s sugar industry has been a cornerstone of the state’s economy, employing more than 20,000 people and contributing nearly $4.5 billion to the economy annually.

Despite its significance, the industry is being overlooked as the global race to develop biofuels accelerates, leaving Queensland at risk of falling behind.

“The silence from both parties is deafening. Australia needs a domestic biofuels industry – and our competitors are leaving us behind,” CANEGROWERS CEO Dan Galligan said.

“Queensland has the chance to power the future of sustainable Australian air travel, help meet national emissions targets, and secure fuel independence, but none of this will happen without bold government leadership and investment.”

Mr Galligan stressed that sugarcane can be a primary feedstock for a thriving biofuels sector, capable of growing in tandem with Queensland’s existing sugar supply chains to ensure we support our successful sugar industry while building a new low-emissions fuel industry. Yet, neither party has provided policy and planning certainty to make this a reality.

“This election is pivotal. We need policies that lower electricity and water costs for agriculture, support the expansion of cane farming, and remove the red tape stifling growth,” Mr Galligan said.

“A new biofuels industry would complement and enhance the current supply chain, helping the sector grow, expand its export potential, and provide a vital feedstock for biofuels. But growers must be integral to this future.”

CANEGROWERS is calling for immediate action:

• $600 million in government co-funding for a sustainable aviation fuel production facility.
• Policies to reduce electricity and water prices for farmers.
• A mandate for 5% Queensland-produced sustainable aviation fuel in all commercial flights from Queensland airports.
• Streamlined regulations to expand cane farming areas.

"Don’t let this opportunity take off without Queensland," Mr Galligan urged. "A sugarcane-powered biofuels industry could secure the future of low-emissions aviation, provide fuel security, and support regional communities and farming families. But we need action now."