A RESEARCH project by Painted Dog has revealed that contributions from mining in WA are much more significant than eastern states residents realise, with many attributing NSW and Victoria with a far higher percentage of the national export figures than they actually are.
The West Australian reported that WA contributes 36.5% or $171.4b of the $470b worth of exports, compare to NSW and Queensland in second place with a much smaller 20% contribution while Victoria lagged behind with 12%.
This contrasted with the perception by 75% of those surveyed who lived in NSW and half of those who live in Vic, who wrongly assumed that their own state was the top contributor.
Premier Mark McGowan oft cited phrase that WA is the powerhouse of the nation when it comes to exports rings true.
“This state carries the nation as far as exports – we provide huge amounts of money that flows into Federal Treasury.
Every other state is a net importer but WA is a net exporter,” Mr McGowan said.
This current research may lead to some greater understanding to an appreciation of the West from the eastern states.
WA hosts 216 mine sites out of the total 470 nationwide and produces 32% of the world’s iron ore.
