UPDATE: The mining industry is facing a critical hiring surge, needing more than 22,300 additional workers by 2030 to support projects worth $129.5 billion, despite recent layoffs in Queensland’s coal sector. This urgent workforce demand comes as new reports reveal the need for skilled labor to drive 96 major mining projects expected to begin production between late 2025 and 2030.
The latest data from the Australian Resources and Energy Employer Association (AREEA) indicates that the resources and energy sector employed 317,400 people as of May, reflecting an increase of nearly 30,000 jobs year-over-year. However, the recent wave of job cuts at coal mines, including those operated by BHP and Anglo American, has cast a shadow over this growth.
The need for additional staffing arises amidst a backdrop of economic challenges. AREEA confirms that while the forecast for new projects has softened from last year’s 108 projects and 27,070 jobs, the upcoming endeavors still promise substantial opportunities. AREEA chief executive Steve Knott states, “The royalty regime, among the highest in the world, is eroding investor confidence and putting long-term coal operations at risk.”
Queensland’s coal sector is feeling the strain, with BHP reporting that its coal division paid eight times more in taxes and royalties last year than it earned in profits. These economic pressures have led to significant job cuts, with more than 5,400 jobs lost in the sector since April. The state government remains supportive of the mining industry but has ruled out changes to the coal royalties structure.
Despite these challenges, the sector is projected to remain the strongest driver of mining investment in Queensland, with five major projects anticipated to require 1,900 new workers by 2030. However, Knott warns that gains in workforce numbers could be negated by further job losses at less competitive mines.
The landscape for the mining workforce is shifting across Australia. In Western Australia, the booming price of gold is expected to create 2,400 jobs across 11 new mines, with a total forecast of 9,000 new resources sector workers needed in the next five years. This contrasts sharply with the situation in Queensland, illustrating a complex national picture.
In addition, emerging projects in the energy sector, particularly those led by Woodside and Shell, are expected to contribute significantly to the state’s projected $81.8 billion pipeline of developments. Meanwhile, New South Wales is set to benefit from 11 projects generating nearly 3,300 jobs by 2030, and Victoria’s pipeline includes six projects worth $2 billion.
The evolving dynamics of the mining industry highlight the urgent need for skilled workers as economic pressures continue to reshape the workforce landscape. As the sector grapples with both opportunities and challenges, stakeholders will be closely monitoring developments in the months ahead.
