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Wilmar Sugar and Renewables has thrown its support behind a new roadmap aimed at unlocking bioenergy investment across regional Queensland, following the release of recommendations from the Queensland Parliament’s Inquiry into Sugarcane Bioenergy Opportunities.
The company says the report outlines a practical pathway to drive new jobs, investment and energy capability across the state’s sugar regions.
“The Committee, regional communities and industry have delivered a strong and practical roadmap to unlock the sugar industry’s bioenergy potential, and support new investment and jobs in regional Queensland,” said Head of Wilmar Sugar and Renewables, Shayne Rutherford.
“The next step is for the Queensland and Australia Governments to act and deliver the policy settings needed to make it a reality.”
The recommendations align with several proposals put forward by Wilmar, including government co-funding for feasibility studies, investment in shovel-ready projects, and stronger support for biofuels such as ethanol.
“This is a comprehensive plan to secure the future of Australia’s sugar industry, which supports around 20,000 jobs, while strengthening the nation’s fuel and energy security now and into the future,” Mr Rutherford said.
Wilmar has highlighted opportunities to expand bioenergy production through increased cogeneration, producing black pellets from bagasse as a coal alternative, and boosting ethanol output for transport and aviation fuel.
“Biofuels will be an important part of that transition, particularly where Australia already has the capability to produce them at scale,” Mr Rutherford said.
He said Australia already had the capacity to produce more low-carbon fuels, but policy changes were needed to unlock that potential.
“Sugar factories have anchored regional economies for generations and remain a critical economic asset across regional Queensland,” he said.
“With the right policy settings, the industry can build on its existing factory assets… strengthening its long-term viability.”
Wilmar says it will continue working with industry and government to turn the recommendations into tangible outcomes for regional communities.
CAPTION: Photo source: Wilmar Sugar and Renewables
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