In this paper, three types of value-adding in the minerals industry are
discussed: downstream processing, improving the efficiency of existing
processing and increasing the knowledge base and expertise of the staff.
It is shown that, while downstream processing seems to offer a good way
of improving Australia's trade position, there are a number of
impediments to such development, notably, limited access to the
appropriate technology and overseas markets. Transport costs can also be
a problem. To reverse the situation will require more positive policies by
government. In the meantime, something can be done towards adding
value by increasing the efficiency of existing processes. Examples are
given, showing how it might be possible to make economies in reagent
costs in the gold industry, how innovative technology has led to more
complete processing of a tailings dump, how research might lead to an
increase in the throughput in the production of synthetic rutile and how it
is possible to leach selectively from gold/copper ores.