Western Australia’s resources sector maintained record employment levels in 2025, delivering more than 136,000 full-time equivalent onsite mining jobs.
Direct employment in the petroleum sector rebounded to 11,244.
The job results were backed by $226 billion in mineral and petroleum sales in 2025, according to the Western Australian Government.
Iron ore led the way in terms of sales, recording a value of $126 billion and export volumes reaching an all-time high of 889 million dry metric tonnes.
Gold also delivered a ‘standout’ result, reaching a record $36 billion in sales and becoming Western Australia’s second most valuable commodity. Gold production rebounded to 6.8 million troy ounces in 2025.
Royalty and related revenues delivered a major boost to Western Australia, hitting $10.6 billion.
Meanwhile, exploration activity remained robust last year, as mineral expenditure delivered a record $2.7 billion, with gold and iron ore being the main targets.
On the investment front, Western Australia’s mining and petroleum industries rose to a decade-high $34 billion.
Mines and Petroleum Minister David Michael says Western Australia’s resources sector delivered another “strong” year, supported by the state government’s focus on stability, investment, and local jobs.
Write to Aaliyah Rogan at Mining.com.au
Images: Jobs and Skills WA
