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Building priority industries for the future -Queensland’s strategic advantage

Building priority industries for the future -Queensland’s strategic advantage

Queensland’s priority industries are shaping the state’s future

  • priority industries

To remain competitive and build resilience, we need to invest in the industries powering our jobs, skills, world-class research, innovation and role in the global supply chain.

In an era defined by global trade and interconnected markets, strengthening our ability to manufacture essential goods locally is important for ensuring resilience, security and national self-reliance. These industries are also supporting a stronger economy and thriving communities for generations of Queenslanders to come.

What are priority industries?

Priority industries are sectors where a nation builds and maintains the capability to produce, supply, and sustain critical goods or services domestically. This reduces reliance on foreign sources and strengthens economic security and resilience. These industries safeguard national security, economic stability, and community wellbeing.

For Queensland, our priority industries include:

  • Biomedical – Developing life-saving medicines, vaccines, and cutting-edge medical technologies locally.
  • Biofuels – Producing sustainable fuels to improve fuel security and help critical industries such as agriculture, resources and tourism stay globally competitive.
  • Defence – Building and maintaining capabilities to support  Australia’s interests and security.

Why do priority industries matter?

Priority industries deliver real benefits for Queenslanders today and into the future.

It’s about Queenslanders.

These industries create jobs, strengthen local economies, and ensure access to essential goods and services like medical and defence technologies that are globally in-demand, and cleaner energy.

It’s about opportunity.

Investing in these sectors opens doors for future careers and supports local businesses’ market access and entry into global supply chains, giving small and medium enterprises the chance to grow and compete.

It’s about future-proofing.

By building industries that safeguard critical commodities such as medicines and fuel, we’re protecting Queensland against global disruptions and creating long-term investment to grow our economy.

Myth-busting:

If you’re still unsure what priority industries mean for Queensland, here are some common misconceptions:

Priority industries are not about:

Working in isolation
They enhance domestic supply chains, strengthen international partnerships and ensure critical capabilities are maintained at home.

Limited to emergencies
While they shine during crises, priority industries drive long-term innovation and competitiveness.

Government-owned
These priority industries depend on private companies, often supported by government policy and investment.

What’s next for Queensland?

Queensland is growing and we’re embracing change to meet the growing challenges and opportunities of a fast-moving world.

By investing in industries like biomedical, biofuels and defence, we’re not just creating jobs; we’re assisting local communities to thrive by building a stronger economy that works for everyone, no matter where you live.

That’s why the Queensland Government is backing industry sectors with big opportunities, supporting innovation, and ensuring Queenslanders have the skills and infrastructure to succeed.

Together, we’re working towards a secure, sustainable, and prosperous future for all.

Last updated: 12 Feb 2026