The stronger performance reflected higher export prices and export volumes for about half the commodities exported ABARE said.

 

Crude oil was the biggest winner recording a 16% increase in export earnings to $A2000 million, mainly as a result of a 14% increase in export unit returns.

 

Steaming coal export earnings were up 13% to $1905 million while coking coal earnings were up 4% to $4120 million. LNG was up 13% to $983 million; LPG up 44% to $287 million; petroleum refinery products up 48% to $255 million; refined gold up 5% to $1445 million; iron ore and pellets up 2% to $2974 million; and uranium oxide up 67% to $154 million.

 

Nickel, manganese ore, iron, steel and zinc were some commodities that recorded modest decreases in export earnings mainly related to volume decreases. Export earnings in the 2005 September quarter were 29% higher than the same time last year.

 

The index of export prices for energy minerals rose by 10% while metals and related minerals prices rose by 2%. Compared with last September, the 2005 September quarter index was 27% higher, reflecting higher world prices for most commodities.