The Chamber of Minerals and Energy of Western Australia (CME) says today’s opening of a new iron ore terminal at Geraldton Port highlights the growth opportunities of the Mid West region.
CME Director Damian Callachor said the Mid West region’s minerals and petroleum sector contributed $2.53 billion to its gross regional product in 2011, making it the fourth most productive WA minerals and energy region after the Pilbara, Goldfields-Esperance and Peel.
“The emergence of the Mid West region as a new minerals and energy province is resulting in a shift to a new economic base,” Mr Callachor said.
“There is more than $10billion of committed resource projects in the Mid West region, providing thousands of local job opportunities during construction and operation.
“CME’s State Growth Outlook 2011 predicts an additional 9,000 workers will be needed in the Mid West by 2015, representing an 80 per cent increase on the 2009 workforce.
“The resource sector has a key role in the future development of the area and will continue to act as a vital source of economic stimulus and a catalyst for regional growth.”
Aside from the importance of iron ore, the region also produces gold, copper, lead, zinc, nickel, cobalt, talc, gypsum, heavy mineral sands, chromite, manganese and silver.
The Mid West is also likely to see uranium produced in 2014.
