Queensland’s Leaders Must Act Now to Secure a Biofuels Future

With just days remaining before Queensland’s state election, CANEGROWERS is calling on the major political parties to urgently address the need for a domestic biofuels industry. As Premier Steven Miles and Opposition Leader David Crisafulli prepare for their fnal debate, one vital question remains: will they commit to the investments and policies needed to launch Queensland’s agriculture sector into a biofuels future, creating thousands of jobs and adding billions to the economy?

Queensland’s sugar industry, which has been an economic cornerstone for over 150 years, employs more than 20,000 people and contributes nearly $4.5 billion annually. However, despite its importance, the industry is being overlooked in the global race for biofuel development, leaving Queensland at risk of falling behind.

CANEGROWERS

CEO Dan Galligan voiced concerns over the lack of leadership from both major parties.

“The silence is deafening. Australia needs a domestic biofuels industry, and we’re being left behind by our global competitors,” Mr. Galligan said. “Queensland has the opportunity to power the future of sustainable Australian air travel, contribute to national emissions targets, and secure fuel independence—but it won’t happen without bold government action.”

Mr. Galligan emphasized that sugarcane is ideally positioned to be a primary feedstock for biofuels, complementing the existing sugar supply chains. With the right policies, Queensland could lead the way in creating a low-emissions fuel industry while continuing to support the successful sugar industry.

“This election is crucial. We need policies that lower electricity and water costs, support the expansion of cane farming, and remove the regulatory barriers that are stifing growth,”

Mr. Galligan added. “A biofuels industry would enhance the current supply chain, boost exports, and provide a critical feedstock for biofuels. Growers must be at the heart of this future.”

CANEGROWERS’ key demands include:

• $600 million in government co-funding for a sustainable aviation fuel production facility.

• Policies to reduce electricity and water prices for farmers.

• A mandate for 5% Queensland-produced sustainable aviation fuel in all commercial fights from Queensland airports.

• Streamlined regulations to expand cane farming areas.

“Don’t let this opportunity take off without Queensland,”

Mr. Galligan urged.

“A sugarcane-powered biofuels industry could secure the future of low-emissions aviation, provide fuel security, and support regional communities and farming families—but we need immediate action.”