Perth is set to become the centre of the mining and METS industry this week, with the Global Resources Innovation Expo (GRX26) set to bring more than 1500 delegates together from 5–7 May.

Co-hosted by peak bodies Austmine and AusIMM, GRX26 will unite industry leaders, mining companies, METS innovators, technology providers and international delegations to discuss one core question: How does Australia’s resources sector compete globally in the critical era?

The outcomes-focused program is led by keynote speakers from mining and beyond. Dr Catherine Ball, the Hon. Julie Bishop, Jessica Farrell, Diane Smith-Gander AO, Mikko Tepponen and Mark Cutifani will address the GRX26 plenary to highlight strategic opportunities, challenge assumptions and bridge the gap in innovation between aspiration and implementation.

The full GRX26 program features ten workshops and more than 100 speakers across plenaries, panels and technical sessions. Themes such as digital transformation, automation, exploration technologies and more will be explored in depth.

On the exhibition floor, attendees can explore the latest innovations from 100+ companies, while dedicated spaces such as the Innovation Zone and theatre-style presentations provide opportunities to see new technologies up close and in action.

Major mining companies including BHP, Rio Tinto, Fortescue, South32, Hancock Iron Ore, Evolution Mining and Alcoa will be represented alongside international operators such as Poderosa, Alpayana and Nexa Resources.

Delegations from Canada, Peru, Chile, the Philippines and New Caledonia are en route to Perth, with many of the representative organisations actively seeking partnerships and solutions across energy, processing and digital capability.

Innovation will also be in focus through the unique Global Open Innovation Colab. Following live pitches at GRX26 spanning extraction, processing and digital innovation, delegates will vote live for the best solution. The winner will be announced at the conclusion of GRX26 and receive AUD$10,000 in prizemoney, promotional benefits and an international business development opportunity in Latin America.  

Signature networking events, informal gatherings and exclusive roundtables will ensure conversations continue well beyond the formal sessions. The GRX Industry Awards Dinner (6 May) will be a major highlight of the week, celebrating a selection of outstanding finalists who are demonstrating excellence and driving real impact.

Austmine CEO Tony Davis said, “GRX26 is about bringing the right people together at the right time. With miners, METS and international delegations all in one place, it creates a valuable opportunity to connect, exchange ideas, energise and explore what’s next for the industry.

From the exhibition floor to the conference sessions, the focus is on showcasing innovation in practice and strengthening the partnerships that support the sector’s global competitiveness.”

AusIMM CEO Stephen Durkin said, “GRX26 is a deliberate investment in Australia’s resources capability, proudly built by industry, for industry. AusIMM and Austmine are showing what shared leadership looks like in the critical era: meaningful collaboration that drives progress and further strengthens our sector’s global standing.”

With the event set to kick off on 5 May, GRX26 offers a unique opportunity to be in the room with the companies and decision-makers shaping the direction of the industry.

GRX26 features flexible registration options including day passes and expo only tickets. Find out more and secure your spot today at grx.au/registration.