Editor's letter

Welcome to the latest issue of MINE Australia.

We often take a deep dive into complex subjects, but in this issue we examine stranger tides. As deep-sea mining looms in the near future, we look at the technology enabling sea-floor extraction. 

Despite years of alleged progress, mining remains a male-dominated industry from bottom to top. How much progress have the boardrooms of mining companies made in the past few decades, and what actions would help enable bringing in talent, regardless of gender? 

In contrast, the conversation around mental health has only recently progressed toward understanding and safeguarding, particularly important in an industry of FIFO work and isolated communities. We look at how policy can protect mental wellbeing. 

And ahead of the referendum, we give you an overview of what The Voice to Parliament could mean to Australian mining companies. 

All this in your edition of Mine Australia. 

Matt Farmer, editor