Resources and energy

Western Australia has long been recognised for its vast mineral and energy wealth, producing over 50 commercial products and contributing significantly to the global resources sector. Historically known for its dominance in traditional resources, the state is now harnessing this legacy to lead the world into a clean energy future.

Perth has evolved from being the resources and energy hub of the Indo-Pacific to becoming a global centre for energy transition. Home to industry giants such as Chevron, Shell, Rio Tinto, BHP, Woodside, Fortescue and Albemarle, Perth is at the forefront of decarbonisation efforts, with many companies pivoting toward low-emissions technologies and sustainable energy solutions.

As global demand surges for critical minerals essential to the energy transition, such as lithium, nickel, cobalt, rare earths, and hydrogen, Western Australia is once again in the spotlight. Its resource-rich landscape and innovation-ready industry place the state at the epicentre of global efforts to combat climate change.

Supporting this shift, Energy Exchange Australia (EXA), hosts annually in Perth and sponsored by the City of Perth, has expanded beyond oil and gas to include clean energy technologies, drawing nearly 6,800 delegates from over 40 countries in 2023. The event now serves as a key platform for international collaboration across the full spectrum of the energy sector.

Perth’s leadership in sustainable energy is further underscored by its role in the World Energy Cities Partnership (WECP), a global alliance of cities committed to driving the energy transition. As the only Australian member, and host of the WECP Annual General Meeting in November 2023, Perth is uniquely positioned to showcase its innovation, ambition, and commitment to a clean energy future on the global stage.

Key Insights

• 1st Best Practice Mineral Potential Index 2023. Western Australia continues to be Australia’s highest ranked jurisdiction for overall investment attractiveness index.     
• Western Australia Resources Profile:
  • World’s largest supplier in 
    Iron ore (64%)
    Garnet(63%)
    Lithium (58%)
    Rutile (56%)
  • Second largest for:
    Alumina (88%)
  • Third largest supplier for: 
    LNG (80%)
    Zircon (67%)
• Mining Industry (City of Perth)
  • Largest contributor to total output ($79 billion – 53%)
  • 3rd largest for employment (22,875 jobs – 12.8%)
  • Largest value-add ($56 billion – 61%)
  • Source: REMPLAN - City of Perth LGA