Central Highlands
THE BYERWEN COAL PROJECT
Time to invest in the Central Highlands district? A $1.76 billion investment is in review for the Byerwen Coal Project, a mine set to open in the northern Bowen Basin this year. Expecting to produce up to 10 million tonnes of hard coking coal per annum, the new mine is likely to create up to 540 jobs upon its approval. The project is a joint venture between QCoal Pty Ltd and JFE Steel, and features four mining zones comprising a total of eight open-cut pits, two coal handling and preparation plants and two train loading facilities, including rail loop and spur lines, which connect to the existing line to Abbot Point. Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Jeff Seeney said they will be able to go ahead with the plans subject to some conditions. “The Coordinator General has set strict conditions to protect groundwater resources, surface water quality and fauna, as well as controls on air quality, dust and noise,” Seeney said. With a planned life expectancy of 50 years, the Byerwen Coal mine is a huge positive for the Bowen Basin area as well as its residents and investors. The influx of employment in the region will be welcomed by locals in nearby towns as well as surrounding areas in the wider region. Seeney commented, “The project could also have flow-on benefits to nearby towns and businesses, creating even more local jobs.” Referencing Sites: http://www.statedevelopment.qld.gov.au/assessments-and-approvals/byerwen-coal-project.html http://qcoal.com.au/our-projects/byerwen-coal/ http://www.miningaustralia.com.au/news/540-coal-jobs-in-the-offing-as-new-$1-76-billion-m |
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Sunshine CoastTIME TO INVEST IN A YOUNGER MARKET
Over the last few years, the Sunshine Coast has seen massive changes with new developments and infrastructure, especially in the Kawana area. With new hospitals, shopping precincts, estates and roads expanding the suburb, over 14,000 jobs have been created with another 32,000 expected to arrive in the coming months. With a higher employment rate comes the opportunity for people to call the Sunshine Coast home, which creates population growth, increase in rental demand and rising house sale prices. Currently, the Sunshine Coast’s market profile is predominantly a younger demographic, with a huge rental demand. Young professionals are interested in low maintenance units and town houses, which should be the first choice for investors looking to buy in the area. As a result, being able to invest in property on the Sunshine Coast has become relatively affordable, with smart choices being under $500,000 for smaller properties rather than making larger purchases on beachfront or top-end luxury homes. Also, with such a tight supply in rental properties, investors are able to increase their weekly rental income higher than previous years and improve their return. Referencing Site: http://matusikmissive.com.au/2014/05/29/sunshine-coast-market-outlook/ |