Uncovering mine closure skills and training needs
With Australia’s success as a global leader in mining, it is not surprising the country is now home to approximately 240 mines due to complete production by 2040.
More than ever, Australia needs a skilled and agile workforce with the ability to plan for and execute mine transitions that will benefit current and future generations of Australians and rehabilitate the natural habitats and environments of native flora and fauna.
Access to training and professional development for the workforce is vital to ensuring genuinely successful outcomes for all stakeholders. Mine closure awareness and education are crucial to the social and economic success of communities affected by post-mine sites.
Prior to our establishment as a Jobs and Skills Council, AUSMASA successfully tendered for a contract with CRC TiME to undertake a strategic review of the education and training options related to mine closure.
Project partner
We worked with the Cooperative Research Centre for Transformations in Mining Economies (CRC TiME) to review education and training options.
The Cooperative Research Centre for Transformations in Mining Economies (CRC TiME) is a dedicated research organisation focused on reimagining and dramatically transforming mine closure outcomes for the benefit of all Australians. CRC TiME brings together over 70 leading mining and mining service companies, regional development organisations, State and Commonwealth governments and research partners.
Research results
Surveys were conducted from November to December 2023 and resulted in 77 completed responses with representation from the mining sector, regional communities, First Nations communities and government.
The goal of the research, A Strategic Review of Education and Training: Mine Closure and Transitions, was to identify the future education and training needs of the identified cohorts impacted by mine closures.
The research found no nationally consistent education and training approach, with knowledge gaps across all priority cohorts. The report recommends a coordinated approach to addressing this gap and prioritising mine closure and post-mine transition education and training.
To explore the findings, visit CRC TiME’s website and download the report and helpful resources.
