The Future of Mining in Australia

Several mining companies have an embedded, conventional perception of their sector and the environment in which they operate. While these traditional practices have served them in the past, the possibility of these being less likely to work in the future is increasing.

The evolutionary change in automation, robotics and artificial intelligence in conjunction with mineral exploration predicts what is regarded, a prosperous future of mining. As the industry continues to develop, more job opportunities will surface for a broader group of industry professionals.

The existing workforce in the mining industry is expected to upskill – finding new roles as the sector moves towards digitisation and the adoption of new technology. The industries that work closely with mining will also benefit from this transformation as there will be a new demand for equipment, technological services and partners in mining. Overall, this employment expansion will contribute to the continuous growth of regional and rural communities.

The Australian mining industry

At present, Australia plays a leading role in mining on a global platform and is constantly recognised for its strong and ever-expanding industry. The Australian mining industry totals 75% of the country’s exports, contributes significantly to the country’s workforce and greatly influences living standards, growing incomes and thriving economy.

Exploration is a large part of Australia’s future, particularly within the mining industry – it is reported that 80% of the country is yet to be explored. Australia holds a majority of untapped potential with high global demand for its resources. Some discoveries of first-class mineral deposits are in Western Australia, South Australia and Queensland and as the sector plans to expand further, so comes the realisation that the country’s opportunity to continue being a significant player globally starts with mineral exploration.

Alex Dorsch, Managing Director of Chalice Gold Mines, notes that the next exploration discoveries across the country are being propelled by demand for new technology minerals. Dorsch states, “the increased pressure from policymakers and investors for decarbonisation means demand for new technology minerals will undoubtedly continue to grow.” The increasing demand for electric vehicles and energy storage is another consideration that he reinforces.

Mining challenges technology can solve   

While the Australian mining industry is making significant gains in automation and digitisation, there are still critical challenges that it faces that can be solved by innovative professionals and technology. Here is a list of some of these challenges and their possible solutions, by Richard Price – Member of the Australian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (MAusiIMM):

Communication to ever-deeper mines

Two-way communication with personnel remains a challenge for thousands of workers travelling several kilometres into the earth in deep mines.

Reduced footprint mining

Technology will continue to automate machinery, minimising onsite operational personnel required. This will reduce the environmental footprint that the mining industry currently has.

Social operating licence

Resource professionals are likely to use virtual reality or autonomous drone technology to inspect reclaimed land visually. This makes rehabilitation easier and demonstrates the industry’s commitment to successful repair.

The mining industry can no longer afford to ignore the role it plays in a much larger economic, social and technological environment – an environment that is expanding and becoming more complex each day. Given fundamental disruptive forces emerging (new technologies) and the impact they have, mining executives need to exist in constant and consistent answers to the question: What needs to change to make sure that mining benefits from technological advancements and other disruptive influences, instead of falling victim to them?