Mining and METS
One of the world’s greatest mineral and resource provinces
One of the world’s greatest mineral and resource provinces
Western Australia is abundant in a diverse range of minerals and leads the world in its capacity to identify, develop and extract deposits.
From the world’s largest fleet of automated mining trucks, to innovative software that improves safety and mine engineering, Western Australia is also a leading developer and provider of a suite of mining technical services.
The deep knowledge base and leading expertise of our mining industry will ensure Western Australia continues to drive innovation and provide world-class products.
With our mature and stable approvals systems, low sovereign risk and modern infrastructure, Western Australia is a first choice for many investors.
Quick facts
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WA's mining and METS sector accounts for 39% of gross state product in 2024-25
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WA accounts for 62% of Australia's mining & petroleum investment
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$33 billion invested in WA’s mining and petroleum industries
Highlights
Engine room of the State
Western Australia’s leading mining and METS sector forms the backbone of the State’s economy, accounting for 39% of gross state product in 2024-25
Abundant and diverse minerals
Western Australia is at the forefront of world mineral production, with the value of the State’s battery and critical mineral’s sales recorded at $10.5 billion in 2024.
Innovative technology
At the forefront of the next generation of information and operational technology – from traditional software applications to remote control technologies, real time integrations and 3D mine design.
Automation
A leader in advanced manufacturing capabilities and activities that adopt automation and robotics, including the world’s first automated heavy-haul, long distance rail system.
Environmental and ethical standards
Our mining and processing industries are at the leading edge of sustainable mining, recognising that environmental accountability, social responsibility, and commercial success are inherently inseparable concepts.
Battery minerals
Western Australia has some of the world's largest reserves of minerals used in the manufacturing of rechargeable batteries – such as lithium, nickel, cobalt, manganese, aluminium, vanadium, rare earth metals, and reserves of untapped, high-quality graphite.
Why Western Australia
Western Australia hots all of the ingredients required to be a global leader in the mining industry:
- mineral endowment – with an unmatched natural advantage, Western Australia is home to an abundance and diversity of minerals, including critical minerals, hosting the majority of the Australian Government’s critical minerals list – as well as hosting some of the world’s largest deposits
- plentiful renewable energy sources – solar, wind, wave, and tidal energy
- existing capabilities – a well-established resources industry, including industrial precincts supported by a $1 billion Strategic Industries Fund, infrastructure networks and an experienced METS sector
- ethical standards – robust and transparent regulatory frameworks, ensuring projects meet high environmental, social and governance standards
- strategic project support – legislation that enables the Minister for State Development to declare Priority Projects and State Development Areas, to unlock strategic developments that are a high priority for the State. This is supported by the Office of the Coordinator General, which works across Government to co-ordinate approvals and drive alignment on these selected projects and precincts.
- major projects are also supported under the Lead Agency Framework, to assist in coordinating approvals for complex projects.
- targeted support for innovation - the Investment Attraction Fund’s New Energies Industries Fund is focused on accelerating innovation, scaling-up commercial potential and expanding local manufacturing capacity in new energies industries. This is aimed at projects encompassing green iron and steel, carbon capture, utilisation and storage, critical minerals processing, and renewable energy.
Opportunities
Exploration Incentive Scheme
The Exploration Incentive Scheme supports exploration in Western Australia through precompetitive data and co-funded programs encompassing drilling, geophysics and energy analysis.
Geological Survey WA
A hub of information for industry on geology, mining and petroleum resources, including access reports, mineral exploration, surveys, geological maps and spatial databases.
METS Innovation Program
The MRIWA METS Innovation Program assists companies to develop products and services that can deliver efficiencies and increased productivity, and increase the competitiveness of the sector.
More Information
Perth robotics start-up drives global growth
Lauded as a game-changer in crane lifting automation when originally developed in 2016, award-winning Western Australian start-up Roborigger has taken their revolutionary crane technology global.
Strengthening Western Australia as a global leader in critical minerals
Western Australia’s (WA) Minister for Mining, Petroleum and Exploration, Hon. Min. David Michael MLA, has completed a mission to Canada and the United States.
Get in touch
Our in-house experts can support you directly and provide referrals or introductions across our network of overseas offices, industry bodies and government agencies.