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2026 WA Mining Conference Agenda
Please be advised that the conference program is not final and is subject to change
Opening Address by David Scaife MLA
Join us for the official opening of the Day One WA Mining Conference.
Resources Sector Update and Outlook
Chamber of Minerals and Energy WA Head of Economics, Aaron Walker, will outline the WA resources sector’s considerable economic contribution to state and national economies, as well as the challenges faced by the industry at a time of intense global competition, geopolitical instability and high energy costs jeopardizing projects and investment. At the same time, there are immense opportunities for WA to lead the way in ESG standards and be a global leader in the energy transition through competitive, responsible and innovative resource development.
Digital & Autonomous Transformation
From smarter operations to safer sites, this session examines how advanced technology and data-driven insights are driving higher productivity, stronger resilience, and better yields in mining.
The Human–Machine Partnership: Workforce Adaptation in an Automated Mine
As automation and AI transform mining, how do we keep the human element front and centre? This panel examines the evolving partnership between people and technology, from safer operations to smarter decisions and more empowered workforces.
Lunch
A short intermission to refresh before the next part of the program.
Competing for Global Capital: Keeping Australia Investment-Ready
What does it take to keep major mining investment flowing in a rapidly decarbonising world? This strategic session unpacks the policies, regulatory frameworks, and incentives that will shape the next decade of growth—and determine who leads the race for capital.
Fireside chat with Vulcan Energy
Join us for an insightful fireside chat with Samantha Langley, Head of Sustainability and Enterprise Risk at Vulcan Energy, as she shares her expert perspectives on the industry.
Leading the Low-Carbon Mine: Governance, Technology and Operational Transformation
This keynote explores how mining organisations can integrate climate risk governance with practical decarbonisation initiatives to deliver measurable business and operational outcomes. Covering AASB S2-aligned governance, enterprise risk integration, diesel emission management, fleet electrification, and ventilation optimisation through real-time technology, the session highlights proven approaches to reducing emissions while strengthening safety, compliance, and operational efficiency. Attendees will gain practical insights into embedding climate considerations into everyday decision-making and implementing realistic transition strategies that support long-term net-zero objectives.
Talent for Tomorrow: Building Australia’s Future Mining Workforce
How can the mining sector close its growing skills gap while preparing for a more automated, technology-driven future? This session explores strategies for large-scale re-training, building automation-ready workforces, and inspiring the next generation of diverse talent to join a modern, innovative industry.
Pilbara partnership: Measuring what matters
As a TLG Cornerstone Partner, and their first ever five-year partnership agreement, the PLS x TLG relationship is a framework for authentic community investment. Hear how PLS' approach to impact social assessment has reshaped how they measure, communicate and strengthen their community contributions. Discover how investing in robust impact measurement enables corporate organisations to be better community partners, and how purposeful collaboration in program development delivers lasting outcomes for Pilbara students and schools.
Opening Remarks
Join us as we kick off Day Two of the conference with a presentation from Chris Shaw, Director General - Department of Mines, Petroleum and Exploration
Re-Shifting Focus Towards a Cleaner Energy Transition
How can mining reshape its trajectory to fuel a cleaner energy future? This session dives into the growing demand for critical minerals, strategies to cut operational emissions, the adoption of renewables across sites, and the unique opportunity for Western Australia to set the pace in the global low-carbon transition.
Optimising Production and Building a Safe and Inclusive Performance Culture at Australia’s Only Molybdenum Plant
Newmont Cadia is home to Australia’s only molybdenum processing plant, located near Orange, NSW. Constructed and commissioned during the COVID-19 pandemic, the operation’s journey of transformational improvement has been marked by both challenges and successes. As part of Newmont Cadia’s processing circuit, molybdenum production involves unique and technically complex processes, from managing robust safety systems to navigating intricate recirculating loads.
How to Accelerate Project Approval and Begin Operations
Getting funding and project approval is make-or-break for mining companies – yet many projects fail in their conception as a result of potentially clunky, out-of-date, or complex approval systems from industry bodies and governments. This panel will discuss what needs could be done to fast-track and future-proof mining operations.
Closing the Loop: Circular Mining and Resource Recovery
From tailings to treasure—this panel explores how cutting-edge re-processing, recycling technologies, and circular economy strategies can unlock new value while reducing environmental impact across mining operations.
Lunch
A short intermission to refresh before the next part of the program.
Collaboration for a Critical Future: Building Global Partnerships in Mining Innovation
This panel examines how partnerships between industry, technology firms, government, and academia can unlock smarter, cleaner, and more responsible resource development—giving Australia an edge on the global stage.
Real Zero in Action: Transforming Mining Through Energy and Innovation
A practical look at how Fortescue is delivering Real Zero integrating renewables, electrification and technology at scale.
