Tania Constable, Chief Executive Officer, Minerals Council of Australia (MCA, reports that the Resources 2030 Taskforce report handed to the Australian Government today confirms that Australia’s worldclass mining industry is a huge contributor to the Australian economy which boosts the living standards of all Australians – particularly those in regional areas.
“Australia’s substantial and diverse mineral resources have made it a key supplier of the minerals that are essential to modern life including iron ore, gold and lithium.
“But these resources alone do not guarantee success. As noted in the Taskforce report: ‘Business and policy frameworks fundamentally affect the cost of doing business in Australia and, hence, the country’s commercial attractiveness.’
“In particular, the confirmation by Taskforce Chair Andrew Cripps that ‘unnecessary duplication is one of the most significant inhibitors of the sector’s progress’ reinforces the MCA’s long-standing advocacy to reduce red and green tape which is holding back mineral development, investment and jobs in Australia.
“Australia’s resources sector is proud of our role in developing regional communities and creating more than 220,000 high-skill, high-wage jobs – 65% of those in regional Australia. It’s time for Australia to do more to support regional communities and jobs by backing its worldclass minerals industry.
“We must meet rising international competition for mining investment if we are to remain a world leader in mining and make the most of growing world demand for mineral and energy resources. In particular, ensuring our minerals industry continues to lead Australian industry and the world in innovation and the adoption of new technology is vital. Securing and sustaining the future minerals workforce with the skills to make the most of new technology is another area which requires urgent attention.
“The MCA and our members have been leading the discussion on workforce and skills issues since 2016 and are developing a strong framework to advance a considered, collaborative and consistent approach to securing the future minerals workforce.
“The Taskforce’s recommendations provide a good foundation for policy development in many areas which must now be transformed into rapid and decisive action by the government. The MCA welcomes this report and looks forward to working with governments and other stakeholders – regional communities, our workforce, Indigenous communities and many others – to further develop policies that will deliver a productive mining industry in the future.
“A growing and sustainable mining industry is good for Australia and all Australians.”
The picture shows Fortescue Metals Group’s Integrated Operations Centre, Perth
