October Mining Monitor

Reading about the end of the mining boom reminds me of the doomsayers who predicted a massive decline of the mining industry when the GFC really started to bite in late 2008.  While tighter and more expensive finance did impact on the mining industry, especially at the smaller end, much of the industry continued on and we witnessed a massive expansion in the coal, iron ore and unconventional gas sectors. As then, while there is a slow down in investment, for the most part mining activity will continue. And so must we.

The big challenge here in Australia will come from the Queensland, West Australian, Northern Territory and the Federal Governments all seeking to cut ‘green and red’ tape. While reform is good, we need better assessment, monitoring and regulation of the industry, not less. Internationally the resistance to mining builds, with two inspiring stories below.

As always, we need to build the network of people who care about the impacts of mining, please forward to a friend and support our work here in Australia and overseas by becoming a monthly donor. Or volunteer, we currently need some assistance with research, mapping and graphic design [report].

Read the rest of the of MPI’s  – October Mining Monitor