Ian Macfarlane’s replacement at the Queensland Resources Council has been named and it could bring a big change in the battle against the government.
BHP has made good on its promise to withdraw from Queensland by selling its old coal mines to Whitehaven Coal.
The sale price is expected to be around $US3.5 billion.
BHP has made no secret of its displeasure towards the Queensland government.
Especially after Treasurer Cameron Dick said he would strip BHP of their assets if they were left unused.
The strained relationship came after the state sharply raised royalties on coal miners earlier this year.
Queensland Resources Council (QRC), which has been at war with the state government over coal royalty hikes, said Ms Hewson was a “born and bred Queenslander” with more than 25 years’ experience at a senior executive level.
Janette Hewson is the new Queensland Resources Council chief executive. Photo: Contributed
She was most recently economic and social governance executive vice president at Santos and has previously held senior positions with South 32 and Peabody Energy.
QRC President Adam Lancey said Ms Hewson was highly regarded for her leadership and industry experience.
“Janette will lead the QRC at a time when the industry faces changes, challenges and opportunities as the sector continues to power Queensland’s economy while providing the minerals and materials needed for decarbonisation,” he said.
“Under her leadership, the QRC will continue to prioritise and promote the highest industry standards in health and safety, diversity and inclusion and environmentally responsible operating practices.
“The QRC will also continue to promote the importance of the resources sector to the long-term future of Queensland and advocate for policy to ensure the industry has the certainty and stability to keep investing in projects and skills.”
Mr Macfarlane, who will retire at the end of the year, has launched a full-scale attack on the state government and Treasurer Cameron Dick for hiking coal royalty rates to raise an “astronomical amount” of revenue.
Mr Dick defended the move, arguing the royalties belong to Queenslanders and will fund government services.
Ms Hewson did not mention the royalty war at her appointment, but said she was looking forward to “working constructively with stakeholders”.
“It’s an immense privilege to represent an industry that underpins the Queensland economy and supports the jobs of more than 530,000 people,” she said.
“For this to continue, we need all stakeholders focused on industry stability and the ongoing, long-term jobs and business opportunities our sector can provide.
Ms Hewson will start early next year.
