UNSW wins funding for next-gen mining methods

The University of NSW (UNSW) Minerals and Energy Resources Engineering School has received $5m in funding, from the Federal Government, to establish its ARC Research Hub.

The funding will aid in the development of the hub for next generation mining methods (NextGenMIN), which will focus on delivering innovative and sustainable approaches to extracting critical and strategic minerals.

The Federal Government, as part of the industrial transformation research hubs scheme, announced funding for 13 new research hubs and training centres this week, focused on strategic national priorities.

To be based at UNSW, the NextGenMIN Hub will develop and advance mining processes that reduce environmental impact and waste, improve safety and increase efficiency using state-of-the-art machinery controlled by intelligent digital systems.

UNSW research and enterprise deputy vice-chancellor professor Bronwyn Fox says the project demonstrates how academic research could lead to technological change in close partnership with industry.

“This Hub highlights UNSW’s leadership in advancing research that supports Australia’s economic prosperity and sustainability goals,” she said.

“Through deep collaboration with industry, we’re not only solving real-world challenges but also training the next generation of engineers and leaders to keep Australia’s mining sector at the global cutting edge — more sustainable, more innovative and more resilient.”

NextGenMIN will bring together leading experts from UNSW, key industry partners, government agencies and other academic institutions.

The Hub will be led by UNSW Minerals and Energy Resources School mining engineering chair professor Serkan Saydam.

“As demand for critical minerals continues to grow, there is an urgent need to develop mining methods that are safer, more efficient and aligned with Australia’s net zero and economic resilience goals,” Professor Saydam said.

“With the support of the ARC, we will be working closely with our industry partners to develop smarter, more sustainable mining solutions targeting zero waste, zero emissions and zero human entry.

“This Research Hub will drive innovation in decarbonisation, autonomous systems and responsible resource extraction, shaping the future of mining in Australia.”

Under the ARC’s Industrial Transformation Research Program, new training centres and research hubs will support university-based researchers and the private sector to work together to address significant challenges.

ARC chief executive professor Ute Roessner says the new initiatives will promote research to benefit Australian industries.

“Bringing together leading Australian researchers and key industry partners, the newly funded training centres and hubs will cultivate the next generation of industry-focused researchers to address current and emerging challenges,” he said.

“Their work will support innovation, strengthen Australia’s research capability and boost productivity across key sectors.”