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Australia’s mining jurisdictions are back in the global limelight, with Western Australia and Queensland once again proving they’re not just digging deep—but leading from the front.
According to the 2025 Fraser Institute mining survey, Western Australia has taken a commanding spot among the world’s most attractive mining investment destinations. Queensland has also made a solid mark, sending a clear signal to global investors: when it comes to mining potential, Australia still runs hot.
This year’s mining investment rankings reveal more than just geographical favourites—they highlight investor confidence, regulatory stability, and on-ground realities shaping exploration and production across continents.
WA Tops the Charts—But It’s Not Just About the Rocks
Credit: Freepik
It’s no secret that Western Australia has been a darling of the mining world. But 2025’s data underscores just how consistently it delivers. With a stable government, predictable policies, strong infrastructure, and world-class geological data, WA continues to attract billions in investment.
What’s changed this year? For one, critical minerals are no longer a side hustle. As global markets scramble for lithium, nickel, and rare earths, WA’s diversified portfolio gives it a competitive edge. Investors aren’t just interested in gold or iron ore anymore—they’re eyeing supply chains of the future.
“Western Australia is essentially the Swiss bank of critical minerals—stable, secure, and deeply valuable,” one Perth-based analyst told us.
Queensland Makes Its Move
Credit: Hetherington
Queensland may have been playing catch-up in recent years, but 2025 paints a different picture. With renewed exploration across copper and coal, paired with improvements in permitting frameworks, the Sunshine State has climbed higher on the list.
However, optimism is mixed with caution. There are growing concerns about land access uncertainty, especially around native title processes and community engagement. While the state’s mineral potential is immense, the report indicates that investor perception has slightly softened around policy transparency.
That said, Queensland’s performance in this year’s Fraser Institute mining survey speaks volumes. It’s seen as a destination where the resource base and infrastructure still outweigh the red tape—just.
Major Mining Hub in Australia
| Region | Major Minerals Extracted | Key Developments for 2025 |
| Western Australia | Lithium, Iron Ore, Gold | Green mining expansion, tech-enabled operations |
| Queensland | Coal, Copper, Zinc | Renewable integration, hydrogen initiatives |
| South Australia | Copper, Uranium | Exploration in rare earths, Indigenous engagement |
| New South Wales | Coal, Gold | Rehabilitation and environmental transition |
| Northern Territory | Manganese, Rare Earths | Strategic mineral development initiatives |
Source – Hetherington
Global Context: Australia vs. the World
The 2025 rankings saw several Latin American jurisdictions slip due to political volatility, regulatory unpredictability, and social unrest. Even traditional giants like Chile and Peru faced increased investor hesitation.
In contrast, Australia’s clear rule of law, transparent permitting, and strong environmental standards have become standout features.
Countries like Canada still hold considerable appeal, particularly Ontario and Saskatchewan, but many investors now see Australia as having the full package: resources, regulation, and return.
The global mining attractiveness index considers factors like mineral potential, taxation, political stability, and community relations. Australia consistently ranks high on these counts, offering a blend of geological promise and business confidence.
Land Access: The Thorn in the Side
Despite its shining performance, land access remains a sticking point. Even in top-ranking states, mining companies have flagged increasing delays and complexities when negotiating land use.
This challenge is especially pronounced in greenfield projects and regions with unresolved native title issues. While many companies acknowledge the importance of respectful and lawful engagement, they are calling for clearer, more streamlined processes.
An executive from a multinational miner explained: “We’re not asking for shortcuts—we’re asking for certainty.”
Without addressing these concerns, there’s a risk that Australia’s advantage may dull in coming years, especially as African and Asian jurisdictions begin reforming their policies to attract fresh capital.
What This Means for Investors
So, how should global mining investors interpret Australia’s performance in 2025?
- Western Australia continues to be the safest bet, particularly for those exploring critical minerals and battery supply chains.
- Queensland offers high returns for those willing to navigate some policy fog.
- Other states like South Australia and Northern Territory remain strong contenders, especially in early-stage exploration.
Ultimately, Australia’s strong legal frameworks, infrastructure, and resource diversity make it a prime target in an otherwise volatile global market.
Final Word: Not Just About Rocks
What makes this year’s ranking interesting is not just the mineral deposits—but the human, political, and cultural systems around them. Australia is mining more than earth; it’s mining trust.
With the world accelerating its push toward electrification, digitalisation, and decarbonisation, Australia stands at the crossroads of relevance. How the nation handles land use, regulatory clarity, and community trust in the coming year will shape the next wave of mining investment.
