In 2018, Australia's resources exports - including minerals, metals and petroleum - generated a total of $248 billion in revenue. This is the highest-ever annual export value and accounted for 72% of Australia's goods exports.

 

Minerals Council of Australia CEO Tania Constable said the record in resources export revenue was delivering benefits to all Australians through the creation of high-paying, high skilled jobs.   

 

"The mining and mining equipment, technology and services sectors supports one in 10 Australian jobs, mostly in regional and remote communities," she said. 

 

"State governments have also seen a rise in their mineral royalties with $12 billion collected last financial year, funding nurses, police, firefighters and teachers and other essential services and infrastructure. 

 

"The mining boom has delivered significant growth in Australia's iron ore, coal, gold and gas exports, with our nation strategically positioned for the opportunities presented by growth in new consumer, energy and transportation technologies around the world." 

 

Constable said the record results reinforced the need for consistent government policies that encouraged further investment and productivity growth.   

 

"Policy certainty is essential for the Australian mining industry to maintain its world-leading position, and for miners to meet the challenge of increased global competition from emerging mining regions," she said.