205100fe-ad67-42f3-99a3-eff7b0be5b68 urn:uuid eng UTF-8 nonGeographicDataset nonGeographicDataset 2025-10-16T18:05:44 creation ISO 19115 2016 Australian Mineral Exploration: analysis and implications 205100fe-ad67-42f3-99a3-eff7b0be5b68 Australian mineral exploration is at a 20 year low in real terms. After doubling in line with global exploration activity during the 1990s, exploration expenditure peaked in 1996/97 and then fell sharply. The current decline differs from previous downturns in exploration that have occurred as part of the economic cycle as it is accompanied by major structural changes in the industry. Forces resulting in these changes are strongly inter-related and include: • cost cutting to stay competitive in the face of low (declining) commodity prices • demand for greater return on shareholder investment • consolidation in response to globalisation • intense competition for risk capital (particularly for junior companies) from new sources • loss of confidence in exploration as an economic activity following declining rates of discovery and land access issues. These factors have changed and continue to change the face of the industry. Published in the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy Bulletin No. 1 Jan/Feb 2002, 45-52. {"type": "Polygon", "coordinates": [[[110.0, -44.0], [156.0, -44.0], [156.0, -9.0], [110.0, -9.0], [110.0, -44.0]]]} 110.0 156.0 -44.0 -9.0 AU Earth Sciences GA Publication Journal Published_External geochemistry Download the file (pdf) documentDigital Download the file (pdf) PDF Unnamed resource documentDigital HTML