Programme

Mining is entering a defining era.

Rising costs, policy uncertainty, supply chain shocks, and stalled progress toward net-zero are reshaping the mining landscape. Meanwhile, pressure continues to build around safer, smarter, and more sustainable operations across every part of the value chain.

How do we lead in an industry where the ground is constantly shifting — literally and figuratively?

This year’s agenda tackles these challenges with a forward-looking program. Industry leaders, regulators, and innovators will share strategies on technology adoption, investment priorities, workforce transformation, ESG delivery, and more — offering fresh insight into what it takes to build resilience and navigate through disruption.

Does the industry have the agility for what comes next?

8:30 AM - 8:45 AM
 
Welcome To Country
 
 
 
 
8:45 AM - 8:55 AM
 
Chair's opening remarks
 
Pamela Hackett
 
 
8:55 AM - 9:25 AM
 
Opening address
 
 
 
 
9:25 AM - 10:05 AM
 
Panel discussion: 2030 net-zero – ambitious goal or already out of reach?

Is 2030 still within reach, or is a major course correction required? This opening keynote panel discussion will critically examine the progress made, challenges faced, and the realistic path forward for the sector’s decarbonization efforts. 

 

Rowena Smith David Parker Jim Beyer
 
 
11:55 AM - 12:25 PM
Technology Innovation
Sandvik
 
 
Sandvik
 
1:25 PM - 1:55 PM
Technology Innovation
Panel discussion: Optimising data through integration and interoperability

This session centres on seamless data sharing and integration between systems, which is crucial for efficiency and cohesive tech ecosystems across mining operations.

Priya Harmer Umer Lone Kumar Parekh Adam Radics
Panel discussion: Optimising data through integration and interoperability
Panel discussion: Optimising data through integration and interoperability
2:00 PM - 2:30 PM
Technology Innovation
Presentation: Revolutionary concentrator design for the 21st century
 
Glenn Stieper
 
 
2:35 PM - 3:05 PM
Technology Innovation
Panel discussion: GenAI applications

This session highlights the use of generative AI to streamline supply chains, improving efficiency, forecasting, and decision-making in procurement and logistics.

Chung Chen Roxana Gianazza Umer Lone Mark O'Brien
Panel discussion: GenAI applications
 
3:45 PM - 4:15 PM
 
Presentation: Cybersecurity
 
Helge Janicke
 
 
4:15 PM - 4:45 PM
 
Panel discussion: Optimising opportunities from the commodity supercycle, while managing the challenges

This session will focus on market dynamics and economic cycles, specifically the highs and lows of the commodity supercycle. It discusses how mining companies can capitalise on rising prices while managing risks like volatility, market fluctuations and operational challenges. It will cover investment strategies, operational efficiency, and long-term planning in response to favourable market conditions.

Ariel Walters David Franklin Dani Jeyer
 
 
4:45 PM - 5:25 PM
 
Panel discussion: Unearthed ecosystem showcase
 
Ed Lewis
 
 
5:20 PM - 5:25 PM
 
Chair's closing remarks
 
Pamela Hackett
 
 
8:30 AM - 8:35 AM
 
Chair's opening remarks
 
Pamela Hackett
 
 
8:35 AM - 9:05 AM
 
Opening panel discussion: Mining in an era of trade wars

This session tackles the geopolitical and trade-related challenges impacting global mining operations. It will explore the effects of protectionist policies, export restrictions, supply chain disruptions, rising costs of mining operations, the shifting investor sentiment amidst geopolitical uncertainty and the path forward.  

Robert Gray Ross Lambie Charles Edel
 
 
9:05 AM - 9:45 AM
 
Panel discussion: The future of mineral exploration

This session will explore advancements in technology, AI-driven innovations, sustainable exploration practices, new frontiers and commodities that are shaping the industry's next chapter.

Allison Britt Andrea Marsland-Smith Warren Pearce
 
 
9:45 AM - 10:15 AM
 
Department of Energy, Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety
 
 
Department of Energy, Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety
 
10:55 AM - 11:25 AM
 
Presentation: Powering WA’s future - mapping the energy transition
 
Aaron Morey
 
 
11:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Technology Innovation
Available for white paper submission
 
 
 
 
12:05 PM - 12:35 PM
Technology Innovation
Available for white paper submission
 
 
 
 
12:35 PM - 1:05 PM
 
Mining Journal Intelligence: How Australia stacks up on Risk, Projects and ESG
 
Sam Williams
 
 
2:05 PM - 2:35 PM
 
Panel discussion: Critical minerals – operational realities & investment strategies

This session will address the realities of extracting and processing critical minerals, which are essential for global energy transitions and technology advancements, and the investment opportunities that arise in the market. It will discuss funding opportunities, government policies, and strategic partnerships essential for securing long-term success in the sector.

Allison Britt Roderick Crowther
 
 
2:40 PM - 3:20 PM
Technology Innovation
Panel discussion: Exploring from altitude – harnessing space technology for resource discovery’

This session will explore how cutting-edge sensors designed for space are unlocking previously undetectable resources, offering new capabilities to map and analyse below the Earth’s surface in ways we’ve never seen before.

Marco Alencar Prof. Paulo De Souza
 
 
3:25 PM - 3:55 PM
Technology Innovation
Panel discussion: The future of mineral processing – innovation, efficiency & sustainability
 
Amir Razmjou
 
 
3:55 PM - 4:30 PM
 
Closing panel discussion: Creating a positive legacy – value beyond the life of a mine

Explores strategies for leaving a lasting, positive impact on communities and environments, from early exploration through to land reclamation post-mining.

Guy Boggs Terry Heymann Tzila Katzel
 
 
4:25 PM - 4:30 PM
 
Chair's closing remarks
 
Pamela Hackett
 
 
11:55 AM - 12:25 PM
ESG
Available for white paper submission
 
 
 
1:25 PM - 1:55 PM
ESG
Panel discussion: Navigating new mandatory ESG requirements

This session will focus on understanding and adapting to the latest mandatory environmental, social, and governance reporting standards, essential for compliance and transparency.

Jairo Bernal Tzila Katzel Nigar Sultana
 
2:00 PM - 2:30 PM
ESG
Presentation: How technology is driving the future of sustainable lithium production
 
Samantha Langley
 
2:35 PM - 3:05 PM
ESG
Panel discussion: What does a decarbonised mine look like?

This session will discuss the infrastructure, processes, and innovations necessary to create a mine that operates with minimal carbon emissions, offering a vision of future mining.

Glenton Moses Bruce Watson Kathryn Horlin Samantha Langley
 
11:30 AM - 12:00 PM
ESG
Available for white paper submission
 
 
 
12:05 PM - 12:35 PM
ESG
Presentation: Pilbara
 
Glenton Moses
 
2:40 PM - 3:10 PM
ESG
Presentation: Accelerating permitting – streamlining approaches and community-centred engagement

This session will examine efficient permitting processes with an emphasis on community engagement, which is vital for minimising project delays and fostering local support.

Neil Van Drunen
 
3:15 PM - 3:45 PM
ESG
Presentation: Engaging First Nation People in mining
 
 
Presentation: Engaging First Nation People in mining
10:45 AM - 11:15 AM
Electrification
Panel discussion: Electrification outlook – opportunities, challenges, and lessons learned

This session will explore the multifaceted landscape of electrification within the mining industry, examining both the opportunities presented, challenges faced, and lessons learned. It will cover best practices for navigating regulatory issues, infrastructure needs, and technological limitations to promote sustainable electrification efforts in the sector.

 
Panel discussion: Electrification outlook – opportunities, challenges, and lessons learned
11:20 AM - 11:50 AM
Electrification
Presentation: The challenges and opportunities of electrifying mining operations – a Fortescue case study
  • Fortescue’s real zero 2030 target – the first milestone, introducing the electric excavator
  • How Fortescue is influencing heavy industry decarbonisation
  • Lessons learned from our first electric HME introduction 
  • Leveraging opportunities that going electric presents and navigating the evolving challenges
Sophie Davies
 
11:55 AM - 12:25 PM
Electrification
Schneider Electric
 
 
 
1:25 PM - 1:55 PM
Electrification
Fireside chat: The investment case for innovation

This session will explore the investment opportunities in innovative technologies and practices, from automation and digitalization to sustainable mining solutions. It will discuss the economic benefits, risk mitigation, and long-term value of investing in innovation.

Charles Gillies
 
2:00 PM - 2:30 PM
Electrification
Panel discussion: Energy management – sourcing, demands and storage solutions

This session will focus on effective energy management in mining operations, how to optimise energy use, integrate renewable sources and developing energy storage solutions to ensure consistency in energy supply to power mines, especially in remote areas.

Maninder Khurana David Thambiratnam
Panel discussion: Energy management – sourcing, demands and storage solutions
2:35 PM - 3:05 PM
Electrification
Available for white paper submission
 
 
 
3:45 PM - 4:15 PM
Electrification
Available for white paper submission
 
 
 
4:20 PM - 4:50 PM
Electrification
Available for white paper submission
 
 
 
10:45 AM - 11:15 AM
Workforce of the Future
Presentation: Tech-driven transformation – redefining roles and skills for the future of the industry

This session will explore how advancements in technology are reshaping roles and skill requirements in the mining industry. It will discuss emerging job profiles and strategies for building a tech-ready workforce to drive productivity and sustainability in the evolving mining landscape.

Aneeq Sarwar
 
11:20 AM - 11:50 AM
Workforce of the Future
Presentation: Industry 5.0 - Bringing people and technology together
 
Priya Harmer
 
11:55 AM - 12:25 PM
Workforce of the Future
Panel discussion: Health and wellbeing as future prospect in mining
 
Davina Pellicano
 
1:25 PM - 1:55 PM
Workforce of the Future
Blue Tongue
 
 
 
2:00 PM - 2:30 PM
Workforce of the Future
Panel discussion: Upskilling and training programs – a joint case study
 
 
Panel discussion: Upskilling and training programs – a joint case study
2:35 PM - 3:05 PM
Workforce of the Future
Panel discussion: Driving success through an inclusive workforce from top to bottom

This session centres on the strategic role that D&I play in achieving organizational success. It will focus on how to build a genuinely inclusive workplace from the ground up, creating conditions for a resilient, innovative, and high-performing organization.

Caitlin Boccamazzo Fadzai Mudariki
 
3:45 PM - 4:15 PM
Workforce of the Future
Panel discussion: Innovative recruitment strategies for building a resilient and diverse talent pipeline

This topic is about recruitment techniques and strategies that expand the reach to diverse talent pools, improve candidate quality, and build a pipeline that can withstand industry fluctuations. It would cover recruitment innovation,  partnerships with educational institutions and outreach to non-traditional candidate. 

Kristina West Kristie Young
 
4:20 PM - 4:50 PM
Workforce of the Future
Panel discussion: Filling the geoscience talent pipeline – what industry needs & what young professionals want
 
 
Panel discussion: Filling the geoscience talent pipeline – what industry needs & what young professionals want
11:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Health & Safety
Presentation: Management of psychosocial hazards

This session will address innovative approaches to managing psychosocial risks, exploring methods to identify and mitigate stressors that impact mental well-being. Key strategies include implementing risk control measures, fostering an inclusive and supportive work culture, and utilising new tools for proactive mental health management, ensuring a safe and balanced environment for all employees.

Michael Quinlan
 
11:35 AM - 12:05 PM
Health & Safety
Blue Tongue
 
 
 
12:10 PM - 12:40 PM
Health & Safety
Presentation: Prometheus Group
 
 
Presentation: Prometheus Group
12:45 PM - 1:15 PM
Health & Safety
Panel discussion: Latest developments in automation and AI to help keep miners safe

Attendees will explore the transformative role of automation and AI in enhancing on-site safety, with insights into the latest technologies reducing human exposure to hazards. The session will cover practical examples of automation, AI-driven monitoring, and predictive analytics that prevent incidents and foster a safer work environment.

Maureen Hassall Michael Quinlan Ben Russell
 
2:05 PM - 2:35 PM
Health & Safety
Panel discussion: Workplace safety training - beyond compliance to success

This session will focus on training strategies that go beyond simply meeting regulatory requirements. Explores effective safety programs, innovative training methods, and cultural shifts that lead to real safety improvements. Aims to empower workers with practical skills and knowledge to reduce incidents.

Stephanie MacMahon Callum Moore Eliza Young
 
2:40 PM - 3:10 PM
Health & Safety
Presentation: Innovation for cleaner and safer vehicles
 
Michael Duvenhage
 

*Programme is subject to change

10:45 AM - 11:45 AM
Interactive sessions
Workshop: Sandvik
 
 
Workshop: Sandvik
1:25 PM - 2:25 PM
Interactive sessions
Workshop: Critical Risk Management - Self assess your company’s CRM maturity level. What does good look like?

This  workshop will cover:

  1. The What: Foundations of critical risk management (incl. MUEs, bow ties, critical controls effectiveness)
  2. The Why: Legal compliance and value protection (lives & assets)
  3. The How: SafeDay - codifying critical controls into procedures & capturing evidence of controls execution and verification in real-time
  4. The Gaps: 3LoD assurance to the C-suite and boards
Maureen Hassall Alex Atkins Andrew McLean
Workshop: Critical Risk Management - Self assess your company’s CRM maturity level. What does good look like?
3:45 PM - 4:45 PM
Interactive sessions
Workshop: Emerging membrane technologies for mineral processing: lithium, rubidium, HPA, and beyond

Membrane technologies are rapidly transforming the landscape of mineral processing, offering innovative, sustainable, and cost-effective solutions for extracting valuable elements from complex ores and waste streams. This workshop will explore the latest advancements in membrane-based separation and purification technologies, with a focus on critical minerals such as lithium, rubidium, and high-purity alumina (HPA).

Key topics will include:

  • Introduction to membrane technology
  • The role of membranes in enhancing extraction efficiency and resource recovery.
  • Recent breakthroughs in membrane materials and process integration.
  • Case studies on lithium, rubidium, and HPA extraction using advanced membranes.
  • Challenges and opportunities for scaling membrane technologies in the mining sector.
Amir Razmjou
Workshop: Emerging membrane technologies for mineral processing: lithium, rubidium, HPA, and beyond
3:50 PM - 4:50 PM
Interactive sessions
Masterclass: ESG & technology – optimizing solutions with existing innovations
 
Muhammad Rizwan Azhar Rashid Zaman
 
11:00 AM - 12:30 PM
Interactive sessions
Workshop: Evolving together – Workplace planning 2025
 
Aneeq Sarwar
 
2:05 PM - 3:05 PM
Interactive sessions
Workshop: Beyond retention - mining’s hidden ROI opportunity
 
Vicky Pellowe
 
3:15 PM - 4:15 PM
Interactive sessions
Workshop: The best possible response to the very worst situation
 
Debbie Morrow