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How to Become A Miner

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What is a Miner

A Miner excavates, loads, and transports coal, ore, and rock at underground and open-cut mines across Australia. It is a hands-on, outdoor career with strong pay, and around 40,600 Australians work in this occupation (Your Career, 2025).

Day-to-day, miners operate heavy machinery like drills, excavators, and haul trucks. They open new shafts and drives and load materials onto conveyor systems. They also keep a close eye on ventilation and air quality. Every shift starts with a safety briefing and an equipment check.

You will work as part of a tight-knit team. Miners rely on each other to hit production targets and keep everyone safe underground or on the surface. Strong communication is key, and supervisors are always on hand to guide newer workers.

The career path is solid. Many miners move into senior roles like Mine Deputy, or branch into shot firing and equipment operation. Most work full-time (94%), and demand for skilled miners is rated as stable across Australia.

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Career Outlook for Miner

Mining is one of Australia’s highest-paying industries, and job prospects for miners are stable. There are around 40,600 miners currently employed in Australia (Your Career, 2025). The sector pays an average of $2,824 per week. This is well above the national median of $1,741 (Jobs and Skills Australia, 2025).

The typical miner is 42 years old and works full-time, with 94% in full-time roles. Women make up 12% of the workforce. That share is growing as the industry works to attract more diverse talent. Most jobs are in Western Australia and Queensland, particularly in regional areas like the Pilbara and the Bowen Basin.

Future demand for miners is rated as stable by Jobs and Skills Australia (2025). As Australia shifts toward critical minerals, new projects are opening in lithium, cobalt, and rare earths. These support the batteries and renewable energy systems the world needs. This makes mining a strong choice for young Australians looking for a well-paid, long-term career.

On this Article

Introduction

Average Salaries

Resources

Steps to Become a Miner

Step 1: Meet the basic entry requirements

Most employers expect at least a Year 10 education, with solid results in maths and science. A current driver’s licence is commonly required too. Undergo a pre-employment medical to confirm you meet the fitness standards. This covers a physical exam, hearing test, and lung function check.

Step 2: Complete the Certificate III in Surface Extraction Operations (RII30120)

Enrol in the Certificate III in Surface Extraction Operations (RII30120) at a TAFE or registered training organisation (RTO). This qualification takes 12 to 18 months full-time and covers plant operation, site safety, and environmental management. It is the main entry pathway for surface and open-cut mining roles across Australia. For underground coal roles, look for the Certificate III in Underground Coal Mining instead (confirm the current code on training.gov.au).

Step 3: Complete mandatory mine site safety training

Before starting on site, complete a mine induction and any required statutory training. In NSW and QLD, underground coal miners need a Standard 11 qualification. This covers gas and dust safety, emergency procedures, and self-rescuer use. In WA, training requirements fall under the Mines Safety and Inspection Act. Check with your state’s resources regulator for the exact rules before you apply.

Step 4: Gain entry-level experience on site

Apply for entry-level roles such as mining trainee, site labourer, or offsider. Many large operators, including BHP, Rio Tinto, and Glencore, offer structured new-to-industry traineeships. These combine paid work with formal training over 1 to 2 years. Regional WA and QLD have the highest number of entry-level mining positions in Australia.

Step 5: Build your licences and grow your career

As your experience grows, get additional licences and tickets. A high-risk work licence covers crane and elevated work platform operation. Consider a Certificate IV in Mining Operations to move into supervisory roles, such as Mine Deputy (confirm the current code on training.gov.au). AusIMM and the Minerals Council of Australia offer professional development for those who want to advance further.

What does a Miner do?

A miner’s day starts with a safety briefing and an equipment check. Then the work begins. Miners operate heavy machinery like excavators, drills, and haul trucks to dig out and move coal, ore, or rock. They also do development work, such as opening new shafts and drives, and load materials onto conveyor systems for processing. Throughout the shift, miners monitor ventilation and watch for hazards. They work closely with their team to stay safe and on track.

Tasks

Mining is active, team-based work that makes a real difference to Australia’s economy. Miners work in underground and open-cut sites, operating heavy machinery and keeping operations safe and efficient. Here is what the day-to-day looks like.

  • Operate mining equipment – Use excavators, drills, loaders, and haul trucks to extract resources from the earth.
  • Conduct safety inspections – Check equipment and work areas at the start of each shift to keep everyone safe.
  • Load and transport materials – Move coal, ore, or rock onto trucks or conveyor systems for processing.
  • Maintain equipment – Run routine checks and carry out minor repairs to keep the machinery working well.
  • Work with the crew – Coordinate tasks with your crew and solve any issues that come up.
  • Monitor site conditions – Keep track of ventilation, air quality, and other safety factors throughout the shift.
  • Support development work – Help open new shafts, drives, and ventilation systems to expand mining operations.

Skills for Success

Mining is hands-on work, and the skills you need match the job. You need to operate heavy machinery confidently, including drills, loaders, and haul trucks. Physical strength and fitness matter, as shifts can be long and conditions tough.

Safety awareness is at the heart of everything. You need to know the site rules, pass a mine safety induction, and stay sharp throughout your shift. Good communication and teamwork are just as important, since you rely on your crew to stay safe and meet targets. The more you learn on the job, the more doors open for your career.

Skills & Attributes

  • Physical fitness and stamina
  • Ability to work in confined spaces and at height
  • Operation of heavy mining machinery
  • Knowledge of mine site safety regulations
  • Teamwork and collaboration
  • Problem-solving under pressure
  • Attention to detail
  • Basic mechanical and maintenance skills
  • Adaptability to changing site conditions
  • Clear verbal communication
  • Understanding of geological and mining principles
  • Commitment to ongoing safety training

Average Salaries

The average weekly earnings for a Miner in Australia are $2,824, or around $147,000 a year (Your Career, 2025). This is well above the national median wage. Entry-level miners typically earn around $80,000 a year. Experienced underground miners can earn $180,000 or more.

min $80 K

max $180 K

av $147 K

About the author

Laura Atkinson - Course Finder Groups
Laura Atkinson

Laura Atkinson is an Account Management and SEM specialist at Course Finder Group with six years' experience in the Australian education sector. She works day to day with universities, TAFEs and independent training providers, which gives her a close view of how courses map to real career outcomes. She writes practical guidance on career pathways, choosing the right qualification and what to expect when moving into a new field.