Mining, oil and gas

Australia’s resources sector, a strong economic performer.

About Australia's resources sector

Our resources, mining, equipment, technology and services sectors are some of Australia’s strongest economic performers.

They generate more than half of Australia’s goods exports and provide significant opportunities including:

  • economic wealth
  • jobs and high wages
  • Investment and tax revenues
  • high-quality reserves of several mineral and energy commodities
  • a skilled, experienced workforce
  • innovative technologies
  • best practice regulations and operations that bolster business and encourage investment.

Social, economic and technological transformation presents new challenges for the sector. Future success relies on working smarter, safer, cleaner and more efficiently than our competitors.

Supporting the resources sector

We develop policy, interventions and projects to:

  • support sustainable development of the resources sector
  • increase investment
  • encourage innovative technologies.

Minerals

We are committed to growing Australia's role as a reliable, sustainable and globally competitive supplier of energy and mineral exports.

Offshore greenhouse gas storage

We regulate greenhouse gas storage in Australian Commonwealth waters.

Oil and gas

We develop policy, regulations and interventions to support Australia’s oil and gas industry and supply.

Taxes, royalties and export controls on minerals and petroleum

Companies that extract mineral and petroleum resources must pay taxes and royalties. Minerals exporters must meet requirements.

Free trade agreements

We represent and advocate for industry and the resources sector by negotiating and implementing free trade agreements.

Geoscience Australia

Applying geoscience to Australia's most important challenges.

METS Industry Growth Centre

The METS growth centre works with Australian mining industry suppliers, global miners, researchers and capital providers to improve competitiveness and productivity of the sector.

Participating in forums

The government participates in a number of intergovernmental initiatives and forums to exchange information and expertise. 

We regularly consult with Australia’s major trading partners, industry and stakeholders to help identify commercial opportunities for Australian businesses and encourage trade and investment.

We also have resources-focused counsellors in Tokyo, Beijing and New Delhi. These representatives help strengthen our trade and investment relationships in their respective countries.