Influence the Future of Resources, and beyond
Seven Word Summary: Influencing the future of resources, for good.
Western Australia is a rich and diverse State, with natural resources and growing opportunities to improve the lives of all Australians.
We at Seven Patterns are passionate about promoting the booming industries that underpin WA's social and economic activity and supporting them to create a sustainable future for all — headlined by the resources sector.
That’s why, we partnered with Business News for a conversation-starting campaign around The Future of Resources — and more importantly, how to influence it.
This collaborative partnership culminated in members of the Seven Patterns team attending the recent Business News Sector Briefing at Crown Perth — along with industry leaders from BHP, Rio Tinto, Warrikal, Perenti, Mader Group, Northern Star Resources, and government representatives — to discuss challenges and opportunities in navigating the future amidst uncertain global times.
Read on for some leading perspectives and learnings:
Skills Shortages
Western Australia's mining sector has lost approximately 10,000 jobs in recent times, primarily driven by closures in nickel mines and processing facilities. However, the impact has been partially mitigated by redeployment strategies adopted by contract miners who swiftly triaged staff to other projects.
Despite this flexibility, the discussion highlighted persistent challenges, particularly concerning critical skill shortages.
"We simply can't train enough people to meet current demands," remarked one executive from contractor Warrikal.
Roles such as mining engineers, asset maintenance specialists, fitters, and equipment maintainers remain particularly hard to fill. The persistent skills gap was partially alleviated by nickel related redeployments and redundancies, however other commodities remain in high demand and available skilled workers remain tight.
These challenges underscore the urgency for targeted investment in vocational training and upskilling initiatives. Industry experts stressed the importance of preparing a workforce adaptable enough to pivot between commodities and job functions, highlighting long-term risks if skills shortages remain unaddressed.
Skilled workers will influence the future of resources.
Artificial Intelligence
Artificial intelligence (AI) emerged as a central theme throughout discussions, underscoring its potential to revolutionise the mining sector by enhancing operational outcomes.
While industry leaders acknowledged AI's transformative power, cautionary notes were sounded regarding the management of associated risks, particularly around data governance and cybersecurity.
"AI is here to redefine our way of working, it’s not a passing trend," said a senior representative from Perenti, emphasising the strategic importance of harnessing AI responsibly.
Mining companies possess extensive data reserves that could significantly advance mine designs, production profiles and predictive maintenance capabilities if leveraged effectively.
Stuart Tonkin, CEO of Northern Star Resources, expressed support for nuclear energy, identifying Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) as a critical opportunity for sustainable energy solutions in mining.
Tonkin’s advocacy for nuclear energy reflects a growing industry consensus that nuclear could reliably underpin mining operations, offering clean, consistent power in often remote locations. This enthusiasm for nuclear within the nation’s energy portfolio, aligns with broader strategic discussions on Australia’s energy future.
AI will influence the future of resources.
Government Investment
Federal Resources Minister Madeleine King MP delivered a virtual keynote, outlining a robust commitment from the government and earmarking a $50 billion investment in Australia’s resource sector.
This substantial financial injection is expected to secure around 135,000 direct employment opportunities, supporting the economy through both immediate job creation and delivery of future proofed skills into the local economy.
The investment strategy notably includes digital transformation initiatives such as Resources Online, designed to modernise between mining operations and government oversight.
The "Made in WA" program, highlighted as part of this commitment, emphasises local manufacturing capabilities, particularly in clean energy and emerging technologies.
Minister King specifically mentioned the pivotal role of initiatives like AUKUS, suggesting that strategic collaborations would enhance Australia's international competitiveness and allow for further diversification of the local economy.
Government policy will influence the future of resources.
Effective Communication
As the resources sector continues to navigate significant shifts in workforce dynamics, essential services include technology integration, government relations, with strategic and integrated communications.
Seven Patterns is an integrated communications firm, helping growth-minded organisations to engage and influence stakeholders – for good.
With a focus on the resources sector, we thrive at the intersection of corporate strategy, integrated communications, and creative execution.
Your organisation can influence the future of resources.
Overview
In closing, keynote speakers highlighted the urgent need to align workforce development with technological advancements, and strategically position nuclear energy as a viable, sustainable option for future energy demands — for the benefit of current workers and future generations.
Amid prevailing global pessimism, the critical learnings from this conversation are clear: industry collaboration, intentional creativity, and integrated communications will ensure that Australia strengthens its position as a global leader in the future of resources, and beyond.
The future is now.
Ready to influence the future of resources, and beyond?
We are here to help you grow.
With a focus on the resources sector, we thrive at the intersection of corporate strategy, integrated communications, and creative execution.
Let’s talk — hello@sevenpatterns.com