Banana Shire Council has adopted the Callide REZ Procurement Strategy at its July meeting. The Strategy demonstrates that Banana Shire is well positioned to secure a growing share of contracts from more than $40 billion in large-scale energy projects proposed for Banana Shire.

Developed in consultation with renewable energy developers and Tier 1 contractors to reflect actual market needs, the Strategy identifies priority areas for Banana Shire supplier participation in renewable energy supply chains. By addressing existing structural, informational and capability gaps, it will position the Shire to unlock the full economic benefits of the renewable energy transformation.

Banana Shire Mayor Nev Ferrier said the Strategy demonstrates that Banana Shire has an opportunity to benefit far beyond just hosting projects.

“This is about making sure Banana Shire gets its fair share,” Mayor Ferrier said. “We have the skills and the people. Every local contract means more business for local suppliers, enabling them to hire more staff, who will spend their wages in local shops and strengthen our communities.”

The Strategy highlights immediate opportunities in construction and maintenance where local firms already have proven capability. In practical terms, this means local welders, builders, plant operators and technicians are already equipped to supply civil works, site preparation, equipment installation and ongoing maintenance services. Fabrication workshops in the Shire already meet national standards, ensuring developers will have no disadvantage in choosing local suppliers for these services.

The Strategy also identifies longer-term growth potential in areas such as solar frame fabrication, battery module pre-assembly and modular substation builds, all of which could expand further with targeted investment and coordinated support to overcome barriers to local business participation.

Recycling and advanced assembly also present future diversification pathways for the Shire, enabling the emergence of new industries and strengthening local economic resilience. The Strategy sets out a clear roadmap for Council and local businesses to drive maximum participation in manufacturing, construction and maintenance of renewable energy projects in the region.

Council will now work with local industry and regional partners to implement the Strategy’s recommendations to support the readiness of local businesses to achieve scale, systems integration and compliance required to meet contractor procurement standards.

This will ensure that Banana Shire’s suppliers and their workforces are not left behind, but are instead at the forefront to play an active role in powering the state’s future.