“For the benefit of Australians”: Exploring national expectations of the mining industry

Abstract

This study explores expectations for mining from a national perspective. Data were collected from six workshops involving forty-seven participants. Participants were asked what objectives the onshore or offshore mining industry in Australia should achieve. Similar objectives emerged across the workshops, although higher standards were sought for offshore mining compared to onshore mining. Participants wanted mining activity to minimise environmental impacts, look after local communities, keep Australia׳s economy strong, provide employment for Australians, leave an endowment for future generations and maintain Australia׳s international standing. However, participants׳ attitudes and expectations towards the mining industry shifted as the focus of the workshop discussion changed and different social identities became salient. That is, attitudes towards mining appear to vary according to the inter-group context. Thus, to fully understand social expectations for mining it will be necessary to explore the multiple frames of reference that individuals can adopt towards the industry.