Mining has been present in Orana and Central West NSW for more than a century, with some workers’ families having been in the sector for generations.

The region has a well-established culture of mining, and many workers live and work locally.

According to Regional Development Australia in 2021, the resources sector at that time was the leading contributor to the region’s economy, accounting for $4.3 billion (or nearly 25%) of the area’s total economic value.

Now the CSIRO is wanting to explore public opinion on the industry in our region.

Cobar Shire hosts its fair share of large scale mining companies with Metals Acquisition Corp (MAC), Aurelia Metals and Polymetals Resources all producing favourable reports in February.

Mining has always been a controversial subject with environmental impacts being the main cause of angst. Public opinion about mining has long been a topic of interest for the CSIRO. In 2014 and 2017 they undertook surveys which provided some important insights into the relationship between mining and Australian society.

Recently, they announced the survey is on again, open to all Australians 18 years and over. The CSIRO say responses will shape the future of mining research for our country. 

Results of the national survey in 2014 showed that Australians view mining as a central and significant contributor to the nation’s economy and prosperity, but this public acceptance and support is contingent upon views about mining impacts, governance and the distribution of benefits across society.

In the follow-up 2017 survey, 8020 Australians participated, finding most Australians accept mining and hold positive views about its role in contributing to the nation's economy.

“Mining plays a crucial role in producing the materials necessary for the transition to low emission technologies, global electrification and global development in general, and conversations generated from surveys like this will help shape the industry's future, balancing its growth with community expectations,” Dr Rob Hough, CSIRO’s Director of Mineral Resources, said.

This survey is an opportunity for all Australians, not just those in the mining industry, to share their views on mining, its role in the national economy, supporting the world in the energy transition, global development and in producing materials for low emission technologies. 

“The insights will be instrumental in guiding our ongoing research,” Dr Hough said.

CSIRO will use the results from the survey to inform future mining related research initiatives that lead to public reports and academic publications. The survey is now open and closes on April 11th.

You can respond to the survey on this link.