Minerals Industry Experience Program
Australia’s minerals industry places a priority on our people and investing in skills and knowledge to provide opportunities. That is why the Minerals Council of Australia, the peak industry body for the minerals industry in Australia, has partnered with AusIMM, BHP, Cahoot Learning, Glencore, Idemitsu Australia, Komatsu and Rio Tinto to offer this unique paid industry experience. The two week program is open to university students who just completed their first year of STEM studies. The program will consist of both office-based and on-site learning and experience.
Paid two-week experience
Gain practical experience within the minerals industry while being paid.
Industry partners
In partnership with AusIMM, BHP, Cahoot Learning, Glencore, Idemitsu Australia, Komatsu and Rio Tinto.
Learning and exploration
A unique blend of learning and infield experience.
Dates and locations
The MiEX program will take place from 2 - 13 February 2026 in Queensland, Central Queensland, South Australia and Western Australia.
First week
Week one of the program is a comprehensive learning experience. Participants will attend a hub-based learning experience in one of the four locations: Queensland, Central Queensland, South Australia and Western Australia. Participants will engage in structured sessions to understand and discuss industry strategies, values and behaviors and explore the intricacies of minerals operations in a corporate setting.
Second week
Week two of the program is on-site, participants will spend up to four days a companies site, experiencing what life is like working in the minerals industry. Learn from experts as well as young people new to our industry and witness the real-world minerals value chain and modern operational practices.
Benefits
By participating in the program participants will gain unique insights into the world of the Australian minerals industry on which our economy and the modern world relies, while getting paid. They will build strong connections with peers, industry leaders, technical experts and program administrators. Gain essential professional skills and experience and insight into the opportunities that the industry has on offer, facilitating informed decisions about future studies and career paths.
More information: Minerals Industry Experience – Flyer
Applications open – Click here to apply.
Eligibility Criteria:
- First-year university students completing STEM subjects
- Over 18 years of age
- Able to attend the two week in-person program
- Available for full-time work hours throughout the two week program
- Available to fly and stay on-site for up to four days in the second week (may include weekend travel)
- A permanent resident or an Australian or New Zealand citizen
- Please note some site experiences (e.g. underground) may restrict beards, jewelry and facial piercings due to safety.
Application process:
- Online applications are open until 29 October 2025
- Spaces are limited, an online application is required to be considered
Contact:
For enquiries please contact Sarah Murray, Project Manager – Workforce and Innovation.
Program delivered in partnership with:
Why should I apply?
The MiEX Program is running from 2 – 13 February 2026. Participants will be prepared for future careers in mining by gaining key knowledge and practical skills alongside a diverse peer group.
Will I be paid for the MiEX Program?
Yes. You will be paid full-time hours for the two week period.
What’s in it for me?
MiEX gives you the chance to step outside the classroom and see what a career in mining really looks like. Over two weeks, you’ll be paid to explore different parts of the industry, geoscience, processing, technology, and engineering, while visiting real sites and connecting directly with professionals. You’ll gain practical insights, develop your professional skills early, and build networks that can guide you through university and beyond. It’s a unique opportunity to test-drive future career paths and set yourself up for success in Australia’s world-class minerals sector.
Is the program part of an accredited course?
The MiEX program is not an accredited course however you will receive a certificate of completion that you can add to your resume. The certificate will outline learnings and achievement.
Will I need to go to site?
Yes. Successful participants will need to stay up to four days on a company site. Escorts and site coordinators will be allocated to participants during the on-site experience.
Will protective clothing and other PPE be provided for the on-site experience?
Yes. Protective clothing and equipment will be provided by WorkPac. This will be organised during the onboarding processes.
Are there any restrictions for on-site experiences?
For certain onsite field trip experiences (e.g., underground activities), beards, jewelry, and facial piercings may not be permitted due to safety requirements. Non-compliance may limit participation or affect the overall experience for attendees.
Will food, accommodation and travel be provided during the on-site experience?
Yes. Food, accommodation and travel will be provided by the host companies for the on-site experience during week two.
Will there be any out of pocket expenses?
Yes. Participants will need to arrange transport, accommodation and meals for the office-based parts of the program. Host companies will cover all costs associated with the on-site parts of the program, this includes flights, accommodation, meals and personal protective equipment.
Will you take applicants with disabilities?
Our application process has been designed with a strong focus on diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunity for all candidates. We consider all applicants and are committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse environment where everyone can thrive.
Can I apply for a specific location?
Through your application process you will be able to select a hub location ( Queensland, Central Queensland, South Australia and Western Australia). If selected for the program, this hub will be your point of hire. Please note that participants are responsible for transport too and from the point of hire.
Acknowledgement of Country
The MCA acknowledges and pays its respects to past, present and future Traditional Custodians and Elders and the continuation of cultural, spiritual and educational practices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people should be aware that this website and linked publications may contain images or names of people who have since died.