METS challenges and successes: Diffusion and adoption of technology across the mining sector

A strengths, weaknesses and gaps evaluation of the Bowen Basin METS sector

StrengthsCurrent capabilities that contribute to the strategic

development of the Bowen Basin METS se tor

o Proximity to the world’s largest and highest quality deposits of metallurgical coal.

o Networks of workers with long-term technical expertise and experience in the Bowen Basin.

o The Paget Industrial Estate METS Cluster - catalyst for R&D, innovation and collaboration.

o Infrastructure - coal rail and loaders, general ports, easy access to coalfields, liveability.

o Emergent leadership and coordination by Resources Industry Network (RIN) and large locally based METS firms

o Collaboration between government and non-government organisations – RIN, GW3 and Mackay Regional Council.

o Queensland State Government support – identification of opportunities, assistance in developing international relationships and negotiating foreign jurisdictions.

o Infrastructure – capacity and maintenance of key roads; phone and data reception.

o Workforce – casualisation of labour; reliance on FIFO workers from out of the region.

o Mining companies –processes to support dissemination of innovations to other business units need enrichment.

o Queensland Government – better coordination across departments/units in service delivery, simpler funding application processes.

o Southern Bowen Basin - development of locally-based industry association, improved collaboration between regional councils.

WeaknessesCapabilities that need to be addressed to contribute to

the strategic development of the Bowen Basin METS sector

GapsAssets and capabilities that are necessary for the strategic development

of the Bowen Basin METS sector but do not currently exist

o Business management and planning skills - many business owners are too busy “working in the business rather than on it” - impedes planning; attending workshops; networking; R&D, collaboration and innovation; applying for grants; protecting IP.

o Boom and bust economy – both phases prevent businesses from taking advantage of opportunities

o Commercial secrecy is a barrier. Mining companies are reluctant to reveal their innovation requirements to METS companies in case competitors learn about their innovation agendas; METS businesses can be reluctant to collaborate because they are concerned about losing their IP.

https://research.qut.edu.au/cmbi/