Mines in Queensland

The history of mining in our state is long and varied, and even now the mines in Queensland provide much of Australia’s coal, gold, tin and copper. Mining in Queensland has come a long way since the first European settlers began exploring the region.

As one of the state’s most productive industries, thousands of people across Queensland are employed by the mining sector. iQ Industry Queensland works tirelessly to provide news, insights and updates on the mines in Queensland. Our aim is to deliver the information mining professionals need to stay on top of the latest developments in our evolving industry.

Coal Mines in QLD

Much of Australia’s coal exports are mined locally in Queensland. With some of the world’s largest coal reserves and operations, mining in Queensland produced more than 280,000,000 tonnes of coal products in 2021. Used both domestically and internationally for energy production and iron smelting, mines in Queensland export their products to customers around the world.

Of the coal mines in Queensland, more than one third of all extraction occurred at three mine sites:

  • Peak Downs Coal Mine. An open pit mine located 31km southeast of Moranbah on Queensland’s central coast, Peak Downs is the most productive coal mine in Queensland. With a raw output of more than 20,000,000 tonnes each year, Peak Downs provides premium quality coking coals to global customers. The Peak Downs coal mine is operated by BHP and Mitsubishi Development.
  • Blackwater Coal Mine. Southeast of Emerald on Queensland’s central coast, Blackwater is one of the longest coal mines in the Southern Hemisphere. It produces a mixture of thermal and coking coals. Like other mines in Queensland, Blackwater is an open pit operation. Blackwater is expected to continue operating until 2046 while its 877 million tonnes of coal reserves are extracted.
  • Goonyella Riverside Coal Mine. North of Moranbah is the Goonyella Riverside coal mine. Operated jointly by BHP and Mitsubishi Development, Goonyella produces almost 15,000,000 tonnes of coal each year. Along with other coal mines in Queensland, Goonyella is the site of major technological innovations, with BHP using autonomous trucks to improve mine safety and efficiency.
  • Ensham Coal Mine. Approximately 40km east of Emerald is the Ensham Coal Mine. Operations at Ensham make use of both open cut and underground mining methods to extract more than 5,000,000 tonnes of coal each year. Despite being one of the best known mines in Queensland, Ensham’s open cut mining is expected to close in 2024, with underground mining continuing until 2028.
  • Kestrel Coal Mine. Kestrel is an underground coal mine situated approximately 50km to the northeast of Emerald. The Kestrel Coal Mine is operated by a joint venture between Kestrel Coal Resources and Mitsui Coal Australia. The partnership allows Kestrel Coal Resources to maximise the mine’s yield, returning more than 4,000,000 tonnes of coal each year.
  • Minerva Coal Mine. Minerva is an open cut coal mine located 45km south of Emerald. The mine is operated by Sojitz Blue and produces more than 2,000,000 tonnes of high-grade thermal coal each year. Like other coal mines in Queensland, Minerva uses a terraced mining method to access sedimentary coal deposits that are close to the surface.

Gold Mines in QLD

With a history dating back hundreds of years, gold mining in Queensland continues apace, with the state supplying a large portion of Australia’s gold. While gold mines in Queensland produce less than our coal or copper mines, it still remains a lucrative industry. This is especially true of northwestern Queensland where large gold deposits have been mined for more than one hundred years. Some of the most productive gold mines in Queensland are:

  • Ernest Henry Copper-Gold Mine. Ernest Henry is an underground mining operation near Cloncurry in western Queensland. The mine produces large quantities of gold and silver and is estimated to hold one 167 million tonnes of copper and 2 million ounces of gold. Operated by Evolution, Ernest Henry produces approximately 82,500 ounces of gold each year.
  • Mount Rawdon Gold Mine. Also operated by Evolution, the Mount Rawdon operation is another one of the gold mines in Queensland. With estimated gold reserves of 300,000 ounces of gold, Mount Rawdon is expected to wind down operations by 2027. Evolution is currently performing testing to determine whether the inactive open pit mine is suitable for use as a pumped storage energy facility.
  • Ravenswood Gold Mine. Located 130km south of Townsville, Ravenswood is an open pit gold mine operated by the Ravenswood Gold Group. Among the most productive gold mines in Queensland, Ravenswood is set to continue expanding and increase its yield to more than 200,000 ounces of gold per year, making it the largest producer of gold mining in Queensland.

The mines in Queensland are a vital component of Australia's resource sector, contributing significantly to both the state’s and the nation’s economy. From thermal and metallurgical coal to gold, copper, and gas, these operations fuel industry worldwide and create thousands of jobs. With a network of mining sites across key regions, Queensland stands at the forefront of resource production, innovation, and sustainability.

iQ Industry Queensland offers in-depth updates on mining in Queensland, ensuring professionals stay informed about operational changes, market trends, and regulatory developments impacting Queensland mines.


Coal Mines in Queensland

Coal mines in Queensland are among the most extensive and productive globally. Key regions such as the Bowen Basin and Galilee Basin house significant operations that export both thermal coal, used in power generation, and metallurgical coal, essential for steelmaking. These mines play a pivotal role in the global energy market and support Queensland’s economy through employment and export revenue.

Leading companies have introduced advanced mining practices to boost efficiency and reduce environmental impact. iQ reports on all coal mining news, with regular updates on these practices, including the latest BMA news and Glencore news .


Gold Mines in QLD

Gold mines in QLD have a rich history, from the early discoveries of Mount Morgan to modern exploration projects targeting untapped reserves. These operations not only generate revenue but also attract investment into local communities. Advances in technology and exploration techniques have enabled mining companies to extend the lifespan of existing mines while identifying new opportunities.

Today, Queensland's gold sector remains competitive on the global stage. Key players invest in sustainable extraction processes, making gold mining news an essential resource for tracking industry growth and development. Whether you’re monitoring established mines or emerging sites, our updates keep you informed about critical advancements in gold mines in Queensland.


Gas Mines in Queensland

The gas mines in Queensland provide liquefied natural gas (LNG) and coal seam gas (CSG), essential for energy production and industrial processes. The Surat Basin and Bowen Basin are hubs for gas extraction, producing significant volumes to meet domestic and international demand.

In addition to traditional operations, gas mines in Queensland are evolving to align with the global shift toward cleaner energy solutions. Companies are investing in carbon capture technologies and renewable energy integrations, creating a sustainable future for Queensland’s gas industry. Our coverage of gas news ensures stakeholders have a clear understanding of these transformative efforts.


Copper Mines in Queensland

Copper mines in Queensland are critical to supporting the global push for electrification and renewable energy development. Copper is a key material used in power generation, transmission, and storage, making it an essential resource for developing green technologies.

The Mount Isa Minerals Province is one of the largest mining hubs in the world, is renowned for its copper production. Companies operating in this region focus on enhancing operational efficiency and minimising environmental impact. Through our updates on copper news, you can stay informed about the strategies and innovations shaping the future of copper mines in Queensland.


The Role of Queensland Mines in Sustainability

Queensland’s mining sector is not just about resource extraction—it’s about creating a sustainable future. From renewable energy initiatives to circular economy practices, mining Queensland is at the forefront of sustainable innovation. Projects in coal mines in Queensland and gas mines in Queensland are increasingly integrating renewable energy solutions, while gold mines in Queensland and copper mines in Queensland focus on reducing their environmental footprints.

Our mining and energy news covers these advancements, providing insights into how mining companies in QLD are meeting sustainability goals while maintaining competitiveness in global markets.


Supporting the Economy and Communities

The economic impact of the mines in QLD extends far beyond resource production. Mining operations generate thousands of jobs, support regional infrastructure, and contribute billions of dollars to the state’s economy. Leading companies like Anglo American, BMA, and Glencore have also prioritised community engagement, investing in education, healthcare, and local businesses to foster sustainable development.

By staying informed through iQ Industry Queensland, you can gain a deeper understanding of how mines in Queensland drive economic growth while addressing the needs of communities and stakeholders. 



Frequently Asked Questions

What resources are produced in Queensland’s mines?

Queensland produces a range of valuable resources, including coal, gold, copper, and gas. These materials support industries such as energy, construction, and manufacturing, making QLD minesa critical part of the global supply chain.

Where are the major mining regions in Queensland?

Key regions include the Bowen Basin for coal, the Mount Isa Minerals Province for base metals including copper, precious metals including gold and critical and rare earth minerals and the Surat Basin for gas. These areas host major operations that contribute significantly to the state’s resource production and economic growth.

Who are the leading mining companies in Queensland?

Major players in mining Queensland include Anglo American, BMA, and Glencore. These companies lead advancements in sustainable mining practices and technological innovation, playing a pivotal role in the state’s mining success.

How can I stay informed about developments in Queensland’s mines?

Subscribe to iQ Industry Queensland for updates on coal mining news, gold mining news, gas news, and more. Our platform delivers real-time information through daily bulletins and in-depth reports, helping you stay ahead in this dynamic sector.

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