Our Contribution
BMA's operations provide major benefits to the communities in which we operate, to the broader Central Queensland region and to the Queensland economy as a whole.
As Central Queensland's largest private employer, BMA generated direct employment for 8,900 people, and an estimated 26,000 flow-on jobs in industries and businesses servicing the mine, port and town operations.
BMA is also committed to training young men and women for its permanent workforce. During 2006/07, BMA provided professional training for 237 apprentices and youth trainees to become tradespersons and equipment operators.
The company also operates a comprehensive 'Skills for Growth' program aimed at boosting training and skills development activities.
A large proportion of the company revenue stays in Queensland as employee wages, spending on local goods and services, mineral royalty payments and rail freight charges.
During FY2007, the company provided a significant level of direct support for local businesses, with purchases of goods and services for the mines and Hay Point Coal Terminal totalling more than $1.4 million from over 1,300 regional businesses throughout Central Queensland.
This included $295 million for rail freight charges paid to Queensland Rail, and over $20 million spent directly on towns and community support in the region.
We recognise, however, that our obligations to local communities encompass more than these economic contributions. We also have a broad Community Investment program which includes the Community Partnerships Program, township spending, landmark projects, Skills for Growth initiatives and site sponsorships and donations.