Outsourcing of mining operations and services is done for various reasons and there is no single model which fits all situations._x000D_
Experienced contractors and mine owners have also developed, more often than not, jointly, numerous commercial arrangements and project delivery methods to suit their particular project._x000D_
It is often the case that some mine owners who have not considered outsourcing to contractors do so because of a simple lack of understanding of the potential benefits._x000D_
This paper will highlight the potential benefits and perceived disadvantages of outsourcing for mine owners and demonstrate how these issues have been addressed by the mining contracting community over recent times as well as demonstrate the evolution of current commercial arrangements in engaging mining contractors.