• About the Resources Industry
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About the Resources Industry

Western Australia has one of the most productive, diversified and responsible resources sectors in the world.

• In 2008-09 the value Western Australia's mineral and petroleum industry reached A$71.3 billion, representing a 19% increase compared to the previous year. It is an outstanding achievement given the challenging market conditions experienced during a period which saw commodity prices fall sharply as a result of the global economic downturn.
• Most of the increase in value for 2008-09 came from iron ore, petroleum and gold. Together, these three sectors accounted for 84% or A$60 billion of all mineral and petroleum sales. 
• Western Australia's mineral and petroleum industry has proven to be resilient during an uncertain economic climate and continues to grow. Over the past decade the value of the resources industry has grown on average by a healthy 15% per annum.
• The resources sector contributed a massive 89% (A$77.5 billion) towards Western Australia's total merchandise exports in 2008-09 which highlights the importance of the sector to both the Western Australian and National economies.
• Western Australia accounts for approximately 46% of Australia's total value of mineral and petroleum sales.
• In the 2008 calendar Western Australia's petroleum industry accounted for 66% of national crude oil and condensate production and 71% of natural gas production.
• Data compiled by the Department of Mines and Petroleum show that there were 67,865 persons directly employed in the Western Australian mining sector in June 2009.
• The resources industry continues to be a major employer in Western Australia where it is estimated that 1 in 5 employees are either directly or indirectly involved in the sector.
• The resources sector has developed significant expertise in minimising the impact of its operations over the life cycle from target generation to mine closure and rehabilitation.  This expertise is enabling companies to reduce the footprint of their operations and improve management of energy, water and waste.
• Western Australian resources companies are offering strong careers paths to promote careers in mining and oil and gas, innovative work practices and a range of employee amenities that attract and secure staff.

With over A$100 billion of new projects in the pipeline the resources sector promises to deliver further dividends to the State over the long term.

2008-09 Statistics Digest: Department of Mines and Petroleum

Plant & Machinery Operations