CSIRO reports increased support for mining

The Australian public acknowledge increased support for the role mining has in enabling decarbonisation nationally and globally. With Tasmania’s mining industry mostly powered by renewables, this state leads the charge with green minerals to make the world greener.

CSIRO surveyed 6,448 respondents in a 2024 update of a survey first carried out in 2014. The industry is more trusted to act responsibly and more in the community accept mining has been and is good for Australia overall.

The Tasmanian Minerals, Manufacturing and Energy Council (TMEC) CEO, Ray Mostogl said, “With 64% of the public agreeing that mining is necessary to achieve a net-zero emission future it brings perspective and legitimacy to continuing Tasmania’s long history in mining.”

“Fortunately, the endorsement has an expectation the industry will continue to be cleaner, smarter and more diverse. With Tasmania mines and mineral processors trialling electric hybrid vehicles and participating in research to remove other fossil fuels, the community should take comfort there is substance to the aspiration.”

“What was also pleasing was across all age groups surveyed, be it 18-year-olds through to 65+ all cohorts acknowledged local communities are capable of ensuring the industry will do the right thing for local communities. This indicates city dwellers who are critics of mining are out of step with those closest to where it happens.”

“Tasmanian mine leases occupy less than one percent of the state’s entire landmass and yet delivers substantial benefits to the state. Last year alone seven  mines provided revenue to the state government directly through payroll tax and royalties which funded the wages of 650 nurses. This is separate to the $390 million spent with Tasmanian suppliers. The balance between mining and conservation in Tasmania is a role model for other states and supports why any further restrictions are unwarranted.”