Australian mining is still going strong

You might have noticed recently that there has been a lot of press regarding the Australian mining 'boom' coming to an end. If you have been considering a career in this industry (and who wouldn't, with a salary of up to £100,000 per year and an incredible lifestyle Down Under), you may be slightly worried about all this. After all, it's natural to have concerns about giving up your current life and moving halfway around the world only to find yourself out of work within the first six months, with nowhere to go.

But is this news really something to be concerned about? Should we really believe everything we read in the press? With all the conflicting information around at the moment, it's easy to be confused. Martin Ferguson, the Australian Federal Resources Minister caused the initial uproar by stating that the "resources boom is over". However, since making that comment, he has backtracked somewhat, instead saying that "the mining boom, in terms of construction, is not over. It speaks for itself; $270 billion in committed capital investment. Gorgon is $43 billion alone, Gladstone is $55 billion, Icthys in Darwin is $34 billion, 12,000 jobs at Gladstone in the Hinterland, 4,000 on Barrow Island"

His comments now echo those of Federal Finance Minister Penny Wong, who had earlier disagreed with him, stating that "I think the mining boom has got a long way to run."

It does seem that the the boom in commodity prices may be over, but in terms of construction, the resources industry is still moving ahead. It's also worth taking into account that there are four different stages in the life cycle of a mine. Mining exploration (7-10 years), mine development (5-10 years), mine operation (2-20 years), and mine closure (2-10 years); which can mean that the life of one mine alone may last up to 40 years. Each cycle requires different skills and jobs, so if you are concerned about the longevity of the Australian mining industry, you can be rest assured that there are plenty of years left yet.


Helen lock


For more information on mining jobs and career opportunities in Australia, head over to the Acorn Global website.