Local economic opportunities network
The Local economic opportunities network (LEO network) assists regional communities with economic transition.
The LEO network is part of the Queensland new-industry development strategy. It was established to support investment in clean energy technology and help communities take advantage of the economic opportunities available in Queensland.
The network of regionally based staff from the department will:
- be a government contact for renewable energy, decarbonisation and other economic diversification opportunities
- keep you informed of current and future government clean energy initiatives
- be a conduit between community and government agencies to ensure your opinions and preferences are understood
- identify resources, planning, policy changes and the regulatory frameworks required for opportunities, and how to manage risks
- work with you to support and inform government policy and program design
- coordinate with local stakeholders and other agencies to mitigate social and economic impacts and create and support opportunities.
Queensland’s opportunity
Queensland is in a unique position to capitalise on opportunities from the shift towards decarbonisation. Companies, investors and governments are investing in clean-energy technology to reduce carbon emissionsand decarbonise their operations.
The global energy transformation has increased demand for renewable energy on the electricity grid, electric vehicles , and lower emissions fuels for transport. It means:
- critical minerals need to be mined for batteries, turbines and solar panels, among other products essential for clean-energy development
- biofuels, such as sustainable aviation fuel, need to be refined and produced
- batteries for power storage and other uses will need to be manufactured
- additional hydro, wind and solar farms need to be developed
- new skills and training opportunities will become available across the state.
Queensland Government transformation initiatives
Search government initiatives and resources available for individuals, businesses and communities to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Contact the LEO network
Get in touch with your LEO network team member to learn about the economic opportunities available to you and how regional energy transformation can benefit your organisation.
- Visit or call one of our regional offices
- Email LEO@dsdilgp.qld.gov.au
Frequently Asked Questions
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Regional energy transformation describes the decarbonisation of regional economies that have traditionally relied on carbon-based energy sources, such as coal and oil, and are in the process of capturing opportunities to evolve into low-carbon economies.
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Decarbonisation is the process of significantly reducing or eliminating carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gas emissions from the atmosphere. This includes the reduction of carbon dioxide emissions from energy production, and from other activities undertaken by communities, businesses and households.
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Historically, Queensland has relied on carbon-based industries, such as coal mining and coal-fired power stations as a source of electricity generation, employment and trade. Queensland’s economy is now shifting to diversify our energy mix and meet the challenges presented by climate related impacts.
Decarbonisation is a global economic force and capturing the associated opportunities presents a new wave of economic growth for the state. Queensland’s expertise in mining,and rich, natural resources which are essential to developing a global low-emissions economy, have driven considerable investment interest. Increased global demand for critical minerals, hydrogen exports and biofuels production can be leveraged to grow regional economies.
The Queensland Government, through the Queensland Energy and Jobs Plan, has committed to attaining 70% renewable energy by 2032 and 80% by 2035. As of November 2022, 22.7% of Queensland’s energy was produced from renewable energy sources. This means that there is considerable potential for Queensland further invest in renewable energy projects to decarbonise the state. Read more information about Queensland’s renewable energy target.
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The LEO network is part of existing departmental delivery for regional offices and not subject to additional resources or discrete funding arrangements.
It will improve whole of government coordination and information dissemination relating to industry and regional development. In addition, the increased engagement on decarbonisation is expected to leverage increased economic prosperity for communities.
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A Transformation Working Group will be established to facilitate discussions and collaboration between the state and local governments. Its purpose is to discuss issues and opportunities for regional economic transformation and manage the opportunities and risks. This will help inform the operations of the LEO network and provide an avenue for issues to be escalated.
The group will consist of members from Queensland Government departments and the Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ). It will be chaired by the department’s Deputy Director-General, State Development Group.
Further resources
- Climate change
Highlights some of the climate change initiatives Queensland Government is undertaking and provides resources for households and businesses. - Queensland Climate Action Plan
Information on meeting emissions reductions and renewable energy targets - Queensland Climate Action newsletter
Read and subscribe to the Queensland Climate Action newsletter - Glossary of terms (
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Decarbonisation stories in Queensland
Last updated: 01 Jun 2023