How different is mining from mineral processing? A general equilibrium analysis of new resources projects in Western Australia

Western Australia has experienced an investment surge in the minerals sector of the economy in recent years. Unlike previous surges, this one involves a large proportion of mineral‐processing projects. In this study, the differential effects on the WA economy of 25 mining and 10 mineral‐processing projects are analysed using an economy‐wide model of WA. The results indicate that: (i) both the mining and mineral‐processing projects will have substantial flow‐on benefits to the WA economy as a whole; (ii) on an A$1‐million‐invested basis, mineral processing has larger flow‐on effects on employment and generates more export revenue than does mining once the projects are operational.