The Wheatbelt’s mining and resources sector is a major contributor to the regional economy, underpinned by traditional resources such as gold and iron ore, and growing through the exploration opportunities of green metals such as nickel, platinum and copper, and rare earths.
The Mining sector contributed $4,237.905 million (24.4%) of total output in 2023, employing 1,954 people (REMPLAN).
Further, there has been sustained and significant growth exploration and mining support services contributes more than $233 million in 2021 and employing a further 369 people (REMPLAN).
Opportunities for the Wheatbelt’s residents and businesses to service the resourcing industry within and beyond the region, can occur by strengthening workforce participation rates and supporting associated ancillary businesses. This includes leveraging the existing skill base that has developed through servicing a world class, export focused agricultural industry.
Growth in the mining sector is important for continued economic diversification, and will benefit the ongoing development and sustainability of the region’s small and medium enterprise (SME) sector.
