- $226 billion in mineral and petroleum sales
- Record gold revenue, all-time high iron ore volumes and decade-high investment
- Resources royalties hit $10.6 billion
Western Australia’s world-leading resources sector helped keep the State’s economy the strongest in the nation in 2025, delivering more than 136,000 full-time equivalent on-site mining jobs, record exploration spending, higher production from key commodities and decade-high investment.
Direct employment in the petroleum sector rebounded to 11,244, adding to another year of exceptional performance across the State.
These strong job results were backed by $226 billion in mineral and petroleum sales, underscoring the scale, strength and significance of the sector to WA’s economy.
Iron ore again led the way, with sales valued at $126 billion and export volumes reaching an all-time high of 889 million dry metric tonnes.
Gold delivered another standout result, reaching a record $36 billion in sales and becoming WA’s second most valuable commodity.
Production also rebounded to 6.8 million troy ounces (212 tonnes), supported by strong prices.
Liquefied natural gas (LNG) and condensate returned $32 billion and $6.7 billion in sales respectively, continuing to make a major contribution to WA’s economy.
While softer global conditions continued to affect some battery minerals, lithium sales hit a record of nearly four million tonnes of spodumene concentrate.
This result underscores WA’s expanding role in new energy industries.
Royalty and related revenues also delivered a major boost to the State, hitting $10.6 billion.
Exploration activity remained robust in 2025 as mineral expenditure reached a record $2.7 billion, with gold and iron ore the main targets.
Investment in WA’s mining and petroleum industries rose to a decade‑high $34 billion, reinforcing the sector’s growth potential and future development.
For more information on the latest statistics, visit: www.wa.gov.au/organisation/resource-and-environmental-regulation/resources-industry-data
Comments attributed to Mines and Petroleum Minister David Michael:
“Western Australia’s world-leading resources sector has delivered another strong year, supported by the Cook Labor Government’s focus on stability, investment and local jobs.
“We will keep working with industry to support employment, unlock future growth and strengthen WA’s position as a world-leading resources jurisdiction.
“Royalties from the sector continue to power WA, funding hospitals, schools and essential services, and strengthening the regional communities that keep our State moving.
“Our proven management of the resources sector ensures WA will remain the engine room of the Australian economy for generations to come.”
Media contact: Stuart McKinnon 0498 371 597 or 6552 5100
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