A recent report by the Independent Tertiary Education Council Australia (ITECA) sheds light on the perceptions of Generation Z towards the mining industry.

The report, Gen Z Perceptions of Mining Report, was developed in collaboration with the Mining and Automotive Skills Alliance (AUSMASA) and Year13, aiming to provide insights for future strategies in workforce recruitment, training, and upskilling.

Key findings from the report indicate that almost three-quarters (73 per cent) of young Australians aged 15 to 24 believe that mining does more harm than good to the environment.

However, despite these concerns, two-thirds of respondents acknowledge the importance of mining to the Australian economy.

“As the report shows, Gen Z is deeply concerned about the environmental impact of mining. However, they also recognise its economic importance. This highlights the need for a balanced approach to promoting the benefits of mining while addressing environmental concerns,” said Troy Williams, Chief Executive of ITECA.

The report also revealed that while young people associate mining with fossil fuels and environmental impact, there is still a belief among 61 per cent of respondents that mining can be sustainable.

“The findings in the AUSMASA are clear. Gen Z sees the importance of mining for a sustainable future but is equally concerned about the sector’s environmental impact.

“It’s a call to action for us to adapt and respond with skills training programs that address these concerns head-on,” Williams added.

In terms of training package enrolments in the mining sector, the National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER) data shows that independent Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) play a significant role.

For example, 97.3 per cent of enrollments in the Certificate III in Surface Extraction Operation qualification are with independent quality RTOs.

Looking ahead, the report suggests that there is interest among Gen Z in undertaking subsidised education and training for a job in the mining industry.

Approximately a quarter (24 per cent) of respondents expressed interest in pursuing traditional or non-traditional mining industry jobs.

“Gen Z wants to be at the forefront of transforming mining into a sector that not only thrives economically but also contributes positively to the planet.

“ITECA members are positioned to deliver them with the skills to do that,” Williams said.

Overall, the report underscores the importance of understanding and addressing the perceptions of Gen Z towards the mining industry.

By aligning strategies for workforce recruitment, training, and upskilling with these perceptions, the mining industry can better prepare for the future and contribute positively to both the economy and the environment.

The ITECA represents independent providers supporting over 89 per cent of students in skills training and around 10 per cent in higher education awards programs.