WA leading the future of global mining

WA’s reputation as a world leader in mining innovation and sustainability was reinforced this October, as the WA Mining Conference and Exhibition 2025 (WA Mining) drew more than 5500 delegates to the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre for two days of high-level discussion, technology showcases and industry collaboration.

With its latest and largest edition, WA Mining has evolved into a must-attend on the mining calendar — an event where ideas, technologies and partnerships meet to chart the future of mining in the state and beyond.

This year’s event was delivered with the support of partnership with the Association of Mining and Exploration Companies (AMEC) and The Chamber of Commerce and Industry of WA (CCIWA), cementing WA Mining’s reputation as a flagship event for industry professionals, decision-makers and innovators seeking to define the next era of mining.

Platform for a transforming industry

Opening the event with a keynote on day one, WA Mines and Petroleum Minister David Michael set the tone with an address that captured the confidence and ambition driving WA’s resources sector. He outlined a clear vision for a mining industry that is “sustainable, responsible, internationally competitive, ethical and value-adding.”

Minister Michael’s remarks came as WA’s mining and resources sector celebrated $223b in sales over the past year, underpinned by world-leading production of iron ore and gold, as well as surging demand for critical minerals such as lithium, nickel, cobalt, vanadium and rare earth elements.

But the Minister was careful to stress that the value of mining extends beyond economics:

“Mining is more than just a pillar of our economy,” he said.

“It’s a platform for innovation, a driver of development, and a force for global change — especially in this era of decarbonisation and energy transition.”

Minister Michael highlighted that exploration investment had surpassed $2.5b in 2024, the third-highest figure on record, while mining and infrastructure spending reached $33b, accounting for nearly two-thirds of national mining investment.

“These results show a sector not only performing well, but driving long-term prosperity,” Minister Michael said.

The conference’s program also featured WA Mines, Petroleum and Exploration Department Resource and Environmental Regulation Deputy Director General Andrew Chaplyn, who expanded on the government’s priorities for inclusive growth.

“It’s very important that when we are doing those negotiations and discussions, that we respectfully understand cultures and how we work through those processes,” Mr Chaplyn said.

This message of inclusion extended across the conference program, from workforce diversity and skills transformation to community wellbeing and mental health. A highlight was the Resourceful Mind panel, a joint initiative between Lifeline WA and the Chamber of Minerals and Energy of WA (CME), which focused on peer support and mental health strategies tailored for mining workplaces — a reminder that innovation in the sector must also include the people who drive it.

Throughout the two-day conference program, more than 60 expert speakers explored the critical issues shaping the sector’s future. Senior leaders, policymakers and technical specialists discussed topics ranging from decarbonisation and digital transformation to workforce wellbeing and investment reform.

The economic outlook presented by WA CME policy and advocacy assistant director Anita Logiudice on day two examined key market trends and policy developments influencing the resources landscape. Other sessions delved into automation, data analytics, sustainable mining policy, rehabilitation and the growing importance of cybersecurity as operations become increasingly digital.

Speakers from Alcoa Australia, Deloitte Cyber and the Minerals Research Institute of Western Australia (MRIWA) also presented case studies on environmental monitoring, rehabilitation performance and resilience in a connected mining environment.

While the conference program provided deep strategic insight, the exhibition floor offered a dynamic display of technology and innovation in action. More than 150 exhibitors showcased solutions addressing real-world mining challenges, ranging from advanced materials handling systems and sensor technologies to digital platforms improving efficiency and safety.

The exhibition featured a series of live demonstrations, giving delegates a firsthand look at how automation, electrification and data-driven decision-making are transforming mining operations across the state.

Decarbonisation was a dominant theme throughout the exhibition, with Fortescue (ASX: FMG) presenting its progress toward eliminating fossil fuels from its operations and Tesla unveiling plans to deploy fully electric mining fleets across Australia. The technologies on display illustrated a clear shift toward cleaner, smarter and more efficient mining systems designed to reduce emissions, enhance safety and optimise performance. Exhibitors also showcased innovations in predictive maintenance, remote monitoring and digital twins, underscoring the industry’s commitment to practical solutions that improve productivity and sustainability in equal measure.

This year’s partnerships with AMEC and CCIWA further strengthened the event’s role as a unifying platform for the resources sector.

Delegates also attended the highly anticipated networking function, hosted by SRO Technology, which was held on-site at the end of day one. The event offered a relaxed and enjoyable setting that encouraged genuine conversation, fostered new partnerships, and provided valuable opportunities for delegates to exchange ideas and discuss the future direction of the industry.

Looking ahead

A consistent theme emerged across both conference and exhibition spaces: WA’s mining industry is not only adapting to change but leading it.

Decarbonisation, digitalisation and workforce transformation are no longer distant goals but the realities shaping day-to-day operations. The discussions and demonstrations both on the conference stage and across the exhibition floor highlighted how sustainability, technology and inclusivity are building a stronger, more resilient sector.

As the exhibition wrapped up, it was clear that WA Mining 2025 had achieved far more than a successful event turnout; it had crystallised the themes defining the next chapter of mining — decarbonisation, digital transformation, inclusivity and resilience. WA Mining also showcased the state as a place where these priorities are already being realised.

WA continues to set global standards in resource development and innovation. Through a shared focus on collaboration, reform and responsible growth, WA’s mining community is proving that economic success and sustainability can go hand in hand.

From the government’s strategic leadership to the private sector’s technological ingenuity, the conference underscored a shared commitment to shaping an industry that delivers economic strength, environmental stewardship and social progress in equal measure.

WA Mining will return to Perth on October 21-22, 2026, with momentum already building following this year’s success. Planning is underway for another strong program of discussion and innovation, with key industry players already showing early interest. For event updates and information, visit waminingexpo.com.au/getinvolved