Katter’s Australian Party leader and Member for Traeger, Robbie Katter, has criticised the Queensland Government for maintaining its opposition to uranium mining, arguing the state is ignoring a major economic opportunity as global demand for nuclear fuel accelerates. Mr Katter said renewed investment in nuclear energy across Europe, Asia and the artificial intelligence sector is driving strong growth in uranium demand, with some forecasts suggesting uranium prices could climb significantly in 2026. He argued Queensland should capitalise on its substantial uranium reserves rather than keeping them undeveloped.

In a Question on Notice to the Queensland Resources Minister, Mr Katter asked whether the government would lift the state’s longstanding prohibition on uranium mining. The minister responded that uranium mining is not part of the government’s current resources strategy. Mr Katter said this position was inconsistent with growing international support for nuclear power and with federal Coalition calls for nuclear energy to be included in Australia’s future energy mix.

He highlighted the Valhalla uranium deposit near Mount Isa, which contains an estimated 25,000 tonnes of identified uranium, along with several other known deposits across North West Queensland. According to Mr Katter, the region has the workforce, mining expertise and infrastructure needed to support a significant uranium industry. The KAP leader said allowing uranium mining could generate billions of dollars in economic activity and reinforce Queensland’s reputation as a destination for large-scale resource investment.