Diggers 2026 wrap: Gold still paves the way

Find out what happened in Kalgoorlie this year.

In a flash, Diggers and Dealers Mining Forum 2026 was over. Three days packed with industry presentations, booths, and hundreds of mining professionals.

So what did the three days bring?

Here’s your short summary.

Day One: Australian gold projects were the talk

Gold was front and centre with over half the presentations focusing on the commodity.

The Perth Mint's 500kg gold bar drew loads of attention. 

Cost control and productivity were also clear themes, with Northern Star Resources highlighting KCGM plant expansion and renewable energy to reduce operating costs.

Gold strength, renewed lithium interest, copper growth and rare earths activity were also key themes. While gold may still face one or two short-term price pressures, its long-term outlook remains strong.

Australia is well-placed to meet rising global demand for commodities and critical minerals. Growing global demand for rare earths means we don't have to put all our eggs in China's basket.

At MPI’s booth, it was good to have plenty of discussions about labour, salary trends, and project insights.

Day Two: A noticeable difference in attendees

Diggers carried all the usual euphoria with positive expectations for the mining industry, and generally positive sentiments about commodity prices.

This year though, unlike previous years, it wasn't dominated by the major producers occupying front and centre in the Exhibitors Hall.

In lieu, there were far more Junior Explorers/Developers together with what appeared to be an increase in industry suppliers, keen to support this fresh wave of “would be” miners to become the next mid-tier or major.
 
Having attended Diggers and Dealers for the last 28 years, the difference in the vibe was noticeable.

One big theme from day two was that investors are favouring secure, long-term growth over speculative short-term gains. If there was a message for Australian mining companies to build low-cost, resilient operations that outlast price cycles, this was it.

Despite lithium price volatility, both Liontown Resources and PLS remain upbeat. The former will focus on sustained costs while the latter believes a lithium deficit has already started.  

 

Day Three: People are still the heart of Australian mining

This year’s event highlighted how fast the mining industry is evolving.
AI, automation, drones and emerging tech are reshaping the sector, while safety, education and innovation continue to drive the future.

Yet one theme has been consistent across every conversation: the ongoing challenge of attracting and retaining skilled people across all disciplines.

While technology will transform our industry, integrity, trusted relationships and genuine old-school service still remain the foundations for long-term success.

Another observation was the growing focus on employee experience. The companies investing in quality camp facilities, catering, wellbeing and culture are in prime position to attract and retain the people who’ll drive their future success.

Without people, there’s no production. Without mining, there's no modern technology.

One of the highlights of the conference was meeting the next generation. The soon-to-be graduates of the WA School of Mines (WASM). Their enthusiasm, curiosity and ambition were a timely reminder that while there are challenges, there's also opportunity.

For all the innovation on display last week, one thing remains unchanged. The common denominator has always been and will always be people.

We have a fantastic opportunity to position Australian mining and meet growing global demand, while building projects that can succeed through commodity cycles.

Diggers didn’t disappoint and it remains the best Mining Conference in the Southern Hemisphere.

See you next year, Kalgoorlie. 

Want further mining insights on salaries and trends? Contact us and we'll send you a free 16-page booklet packed with labour market insights that can shape your hiring decisions. 

 

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