It’s hard to believe we’re already midway through December and preparing to wrap up 2025. Australia’s economy has continued to demonstrate resilience and the construction and mining equipment industry has reflected that strength. That said, momentum remains uneven across the country. Resource-rich states such as Queensland and Western Australia are still leading the way, supported by sustained infrastructure investment and renewed confidence in mining activity. 

Industry outlook 

Mining equipment demand remains the standout, up more than 10% over the past 12 months. Stable commodity prices and increased investment in critical minerals are driving this uplift. Exploration spending has also surged, as governments and investors focus on securing supply chains for electrification and energy security. This confidence has been further strengthened by the recently-announced A$13 billion Australia–US Critical Minerals Framework, which provides a strong long-term signal to the market.  

In contrast, construction equipment demand is more varied. Overall demand has held steady over the past year, with excavator sales showing improvement over the last six months. Regional excavator demand varies: QLD (+15%), WA (+10%), NSW (+3%) and SA (+13%) have shown good growth, while VIC (-2%) remains under pressure. Looking ahead, the five-year outlook is positive, underpinned by major infrastructure commitments, indicating equipment national growth forecasts of 3 to 4%. 

Driving innovation and skills 

CMEIG’s working groups continue to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our industry. The Engineering Working Group is progressing important work on electrification and safety standards, while the Education and Training Group is collaborating with members, mining operations and training providers to build capability in technicians for electric and autonomous machinery.  

With more than 1,500 electric machines expected in mining operations by 2030, and over 3,000 tradespeople required by 2035 to support machine control, guidance systems and autonomous equipment, building capability and critical mass for service and maintenance is essential. 

The introduction of CMEIG’s Health, Safety & Environment working group is on track, with a draft charter and key objectives now developed. I look forward to our first meeting in February 2026 as we work together to help ensure the safety and wellbeing of our workforce. 

I encourage all members to stay engaged and contribute to these initiatives. CMEIG is a member-driven association; our impact is only as strong as the participation and contribution of our members across our working groups.  

Looking ahead to 2026 

The year ahead will be pivotal for our industry. CMEIG’s key priorities will include working with key stakeholders to address: 

  • Accelerating electrification and automation: Supporting industry adoption of electric and autonomous machinery. 
  • Workforce development: Expanding training pathways for high-demand skills, including machine control and zero-emission technologies. 
  • Advocacy and standards: Continuing strong engagement with government and regulators to shape safety standards and secure workforce development funding. 
  • Member collaboration: Strengthening forums and working groups to ensure smaller members have a voice in shaping industry-wide solutions. 

I am also pleased to share that I have been appointed by the Mining and Automotive Skills Alliance (AUSMASA) to the Automotive Strategic Workforce Advisory Panel (SWAP). I look forward to contributing to this important work on behalf of CMEIG members. 

As we wrap up 2025, I would like to wish all our members a Merry Christmas and a safe, healthy 2026. To those who contribute so actively and passionately to our working groups, thank you for ensuring member needs remain at the heart of our agenda. And to the CMEIG Board, thank you for guidance and ongoing commitment to keeping our association focused and relevant.