The Queensland mining industry is experiencing unprecedented growth, with increases in exploration and development across the state.

The Australian Bureau of Statistics estimated total Queensland minerals exploration expenditure rose 17.6% to $A147 million in 2004-05.

"Coal is of particular importance to Queensland because it is our single biggest export earner," he said.

"There are a number of major coal projects currently in various stages of expansion, construction or planning across the state, including the Hail Creek opencut west of Mackay and the Dawson mine complex near Moura and Theodore.”

The minerals sector is also experiencing a resurgence of development.

Recent mineral projects that have come into production or are under construction include the Cracow gold mine, the Twin Hills gold mine and the Collingwood tin mine.