The Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy (QMEA) is a partnership between the Queensland Government and the Queensland Resources Council (QRC) which provides a talent pipeline of employees into the resources sector and other supporting science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) industries.

Participating schools

The QMEA Gateway to Industry Schools project offers a range of programs and experiences to broaden knowledge of the sector for teachers and students in Years 7 to 12 and provide pathways for young people into resource sector and related careers.

View a list of current QMEA schools.

QMEA activities are structured across 3 phases:

  • Stimulating Interest and Making Connections (Years 7–8)
  • Informing Decisions and Influencing Pathways (Years 9–10)
  • Challenging and Preparing (Years 11–12).

Opportunities and events

Teacher professional development is offered by QMEA staff and third-party innovation partners. To find out more, view the QMEA calendar of events.

Students can participate in part day, whole day and extended experiences, including the annual 6 day camps offered in various locations across Queensland.

Students and teachers are engaged in both trade and professional programs which focus on STEM-related areas, aligning to the Australian and Queensland curricula where practical.

Teachers and students also have access to a range of specially developed and contextualised curriculum and teaching resources through Oresome Resources, the QRCs education website.

QMEA expansion

In July 2025, the Queensland Government expanded the Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy to the regions. The $2 million expansion will see regional hubs established in Mackay (2025), Rockhampton (2026) and Townsville (2027) to help build a pipeline of resource workers.

Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy will add 50 additional schools, up to 10,000 more students to its program over 3 years. The expansion will see the program also transition to primary schools.

More information

Contact

Matthew Heskett
Executive Manager, Skills and Education
Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy

Phone: (07) 3295 9560
Mobile: 0436 322 336
Email: info@qmea.org.au

Level 29, 12 Creek Street
BRISBANE CITY  QLD  4000
PO Box 15221
CITY EAST  QLD  4002

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Last updated 17 July 2025

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