BREAKING: Despite recent job cuts at coal mines in Queensland, the mining industry urgently needs over 22,300 new workers by 2030 to support projects valued at nearly $130 billion. A new report from the Australian Resources and Energy Employer Association (AREEA) reveals that the sector is poised for growth, even as it grapples with economic challenges.
The report indicates that 96 major mining projects are set to commence between late 2025 and 2030, requiring significant workforce expansion despite the backdrop of recent layoffs. As of May, the resources and energy sector directly employed 317,400 people, marking an increase of nearly 30,000 from the previous year.
Amidst the troubling news of job losses—over 5,400 positions were cut in August alone—officials emphasize the importance of these upcoming projects. BHP and Anglo American have already announced cuts to their Queensland coal operations due to low coal prices, further complicating the job landscape.
AREEA CEO Steve Knott stated, “The royalty regime, among the highest in the world, is eroding investor confidence and putting long-term coal operations at risk.” This sentiment underscores the precarious situation facing the coal industry, which is experiencing fallout from high taxation and global competition.
Despite these setbacks, Queensland’s resources sector remains the strongest driver of mining investment in the region. Five new projects are expected to require 1,900 additional workers by 2030. The state government has reiterated its support for the mining sector, although it has ruled out changes to the coal royalties framework.
Conversely, Western Australia is projected to see a more stable mining job market, with 2,400 new jobs anticipated from 11 new gold mines. Overall, the state is forecasted to need 9,000 new resources sector workers in the next five years. This contrasts with calls from unions for substantial pay raises in a sector that already boasts the highest average salaries in Australia.
The contrasting dynamics between Queensland and Western Australia highlight the urgent need for strategic planning within the mining sector. With a steady unemployment rate of 4.2 percent amid recent job losses, the focus will be on how these developments unfold in the coming months.
As the mining industry navigates these challenges, the emphasis remains on harnessing new opportunities while addressing the economic pressures faced by coal operations. With thousands of positions on the line, the urgency for skilled workers has never been greater.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story and its implications for the future of mining in Australia.
