Mining, oil and gas

Australia’s resources sector, a strong economic performer.

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 a strong resources sector

We develop policy, programs and regulations to:

  • support sustainable development of the resources sector
  • increase investment
  • encourage innovative, clean energy and low-emissions technologies
  • support the transition to net zero.

  • Minerals

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

  • Oil and gas

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

  • Offshore greenhouse gas storage

    We regulate greenhouse gas (GHG) storage in Australian Commonwealth waters.

  • 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.

  • 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.

Supporting net zero transformation

We’re helping to ensure the resources sector contributes to our international decarbonisation commitments.

  • Planning for gas to 2050

    The Future Gas Strategy outlines the Australian Government’s medium and long-term plan for gas supply, demand and emissions reduction.

  • Resources Methane Abatement Fund

    This program advances new technologies that reduce and remove methane gas from Australia’s coal and gas industry.

  • Greenhouse gas storage exploration

    The GHG acreage release ensures companies explore offshore carbon capture and storage opportunities in a structured, transparent and well-regulated way.

Participating in forums

The Australian 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 overseas. These representatives help strengthen our trade and investment relationships in their host countries.

Featured publications

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Critical Minerals Strategy 2023–2030

20 June 2023 Critical Minerals Office
The Critical Minerals Strategy sets out the government’s vision to grow Australia’s critical minerals sector.

Future Gas Strategy

9 May 2024 Department of Industry, Science and Resources
The Future Gas Strategy maps our plan for how gas will support our economy’s transition to net zero in partnership with the world.

Resources and energy quarterly

29 March 2021 Office of the Chief Economist
Forecasts the value, volume and price of Australia’s major resources and energy commodity exports.

Latest news

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Data and advice from our portfolio agencies

  • Geoscience Australia

    Applying geoscience to Australia's most important challenges.

  • CSIRO

    Supporting Australia’s mining and resources industry through innovative science and technology.