Global mining trends are rapidly changing, focusing in on critical minerals, decarbonisation and supply chain resilience, with the sector increasingly turning to ways innovation can create measurable outcomes.
Through helping to deploy artificial intelligence (AI) in exploration to deliver net-zero operations and securing global market access, conversations are shifting to what can be done and implemented at scale.
The Global Resources Innovation Expo (GRX26) will put that shift at the centre of discussion when it returns from May 5–7. Hosted by peak bodies AusIMM and Austmine and endorsed by the Minerals Council of Australia (MCA), the Perth event will bring together leaders from across mining, government, investment and research.
Former Federal Foreign Minister Julie Bishop will examine the new rules of resource diplomacy in an era defined by critical minerals and strategic competition.
Austrade chief executive officer (CEO) Paul Grimes will address international market access for mining equipment, technology and services (METS) companies, highlighting how companies across the Pacific can benefit from this renewed focus and pivot towards greater collaboration.
These speakers are joined by a cross-section of respected voices, including MCA CEO Tania Constable and Perenti chair Diane Smith-Gander, underscoring the event’s intent to bridge policy, technology and operational leadership.
GRX26 features a deliberate bias for action. Collaborative conversations are structured to define practical solutions and make public commitments. Fireside chats invert traditional speaking formats, placing the audience in the driver’s seat. The GRX Global Open Innovation Colab will see technology developers pitch live, with delegates voting for winning solutions in real-time and partnership discussions unfolding on the floor.
“Innovation is critical to the continued performance and competitiveness of the mining sector,” Austmine interim CEO Vanessa Haberland said. “GRX brings together mining and METS companies to showcase technologies and services that are already making an impact in operations today, while also exploring the ideas and partnerships that will shape the next generation of mining solutions.
This sentiment was echoed by AusIMM CEO Stephen Durkin, who said the event showcases “game-changing leadership, groundbreaking innovations and collaborative thinking needed to supercharge the sector and lay the foundation for growth in a complex, globally competitive environment”.
GRX26 focuses on the importance of international collaboration, with delegations arriving from Canada, the Philippines, India, Israel, Peru, Chile and Scandinavia.
That global outlook sets the tone for the event’s broader ambition.
“Australia has long been recognised for its mining capability. The next phase of our competitive advantage will be defined by how quickly we translate innovation into scalable outcomes and strengthen our global partnerships,” Haberland said.