WA Mining Conference & Exhibition 2024: Tackling the big issues shaping the sector’s future

Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre.

Over two days, industry leaders, innovators, and experts gathered to share ideas, showcase breakthroughs, and tackle the big issues shaping the sector’s future.

The atmosphere was buzzing in the expanded exhibition hall, which was packed with the latest innovations in technology and sustainability. Themes like decarbonisation, advanced tech, and data analysis sparked meaningful conversations about what’s next for mining in Western Australia (WA).

With more than 3,000 registrations, it was clear this event was the place to be for anyone connected to mining in WA.

WA Mining wasn’t just about showcasing the latest tools and tech—it was also a platform for big-picture thinking about the challenges and opportunities ahead for the industry. Across two packed days, keynote speakers offered valuable insights that left attendees with plenty to consider. 

Day one: a wake-up call for WA’s mining sector 

Aaron Walker, head of economics at the Chamber of Minerals and Energy WA, took to the stage with a candid look at the realities facing the industry. From declining employment—20,000 jobs lost since May 2023—to falling prices for key commodities like iron ore, lithium, and nickel, Walker painted a picture of a sector under pressure. 

Rising costs, particularly in electricity on the South West Interconnected System (SWIS), and increasing regulatory uncertainty at the federal level added to the list of challenges. Yet, Walker’s message was clear: these obstacles are not insurmountable. His call to action focused on advocating for policies that streamline approvals, decarbonise WA’s electricity grids, and develop fully equipped Strategic Industrial Areas.

Day two: unlocking Australia’s potential in a global market 

On the second day, David Parker, the Minerals Council of Australia’s executive director for WA, brought a fresh perspective on Australia’s role in the global clean energy transition. Drawing from the MCA’s “Minerals-plus” report, Parker highlighted how Australia’s mining industry could capitalise on its natural resources to integrate into high-demand global supply chains. 

The report emphasised the urgency of acting now, acknowledging that Australia has a limited window of opportunity to meet the government’s ambitions of becoming a clean energy superpower. Parker underscored that realising this ambition would require doubling down on the country’s expertise in producing the minerals and metals critical for renewable energy technologies like batteries, hydrogen systems, and carbon capture solutions. 

One of the standout takeaways from Parker’s address was the staggering number of projects under consideration in the mining sector. While hundreds of potential ventures are explored each year, only one in 20 actually progresses to development. According to Parker, this low conversion rate indicates the need for better coordination, smarter planning, and policy reforms to reduce barriers for investors.

D13, a proudly Australian-owned company, made a significant impression with its cutting-edge counter-drone technology. As unauthorised unmanned aerial systems (UAS) pose growing risks to safety and security, D13’s mission is simple yet impactful: protect people and assets. 

At the heart of their offering is Scout, a compact, passive RF-based sensor unit that delivers 360-degree detection coverage. Scout’s unique single-antenna system was designed specifically to meet the needs of the Australian market, ensuring minimal disruption to existing infrastructure while providing robust protection against rogue drones.

Fresh off their recent win at the 2024 Bulk Handling Innovative Technology Award, CST showcased their Mass & Volume Measurement System, which promises to revolutionise bulk material handling. 

This award-winning system combines Lidar volumetric laser scanning with a high-accuracy belt weigher to provide real-time insights into critical metrics such as material tonnage, volume, density, and even conveyor belt wear. This comprehensive data allows operators to enhance efficiency, optimise processes, and the all-important reduction in downtime.

As the conference wrapped up under Perth’s warm spring sunshine, the WA Mining team gave a big thank you to all the exhibitors, partners, and visitors who made it such a fantastic event. With nearly half of the attendees being decision-makers, it was clear this was a place where real connections and opportunities were made. 

The good news? WA Mining will return to Perth in October 2025. Until then, the conversations, ideas, and partnerships sparked here will keep forming the future of mining in Western Australia and further.

Click here to begin planning for WA Mining Conference and Exhibition 2025.