A major mining conference focused on the role of mining and its future will be held in Melbourne, Australia later this month.

The inaugural International Mining and Resources Conference (Imarc) will be held at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre from September 22 to 26.

The resources sector is the single biggest investment priority for Australia. The country’s mining equipment, technology and services (METS) sector is valued at A$90 billion ($81.35 billion) and employs 360,000 Australians.

John Butler, commissioner to the Middle East and Africa and Turkey, said: “Victoria is a hub for mining and resources and mining services, supported by the presence of mining titans Rio Tinto, BHP Billiton and Newcrest Mining.”

“The State’s METS sector is valued at A$17 billion ($15.36 billion), which makes it a major contributor to Victoria’s economic growth and long-term prosperity.

With more than 120 guest speakers already secured, Imarc will provide a platform for companies that currently supply traditional industry sectors, such as automotive, to develop new relationships in the mining sector.

Covering a whole range of themes, from the financial environment, competitiveness, productivity, to social responsibility, human and indigenous rights, Imarc will offer panel discussions and plenary keynote sessions. 

The conference will explore a range of topics, from the role of mining in global sustainable development to skills development through to innovation to drive the future of mining.

Another highlight will be the Mining Ministerial Summit, which will promote global mining policy and regulation excellence. This will provide an opportunity for senior government representatives to network with their international counterparts to develop joint initiatives and partnerships.

Imarc will also offer workshops as well as investor hosted round table discussions, where miners will have the opportunity to talk directly with a range of different investors to find out what alternative sources of capital are currently available and how to attract that investment. – TradeArabia News Service