Celebrating innovation and technology in mining excellence
The Queensland Mining Awards (QMA 2026) officially opens for entries, inviting Queensland’s resources sector to showcase their achievements in innovation, safety, collaboration and operational excellence.
Presented by the Bowen Basin Mining Club in partnership with the Queensland Resources Council, the Awards recognise outstanding contributions to Queensland’s mining industry across eight categories. This year’s program places particular emphasis on technological advancement, with the introduction of the Best New Technology category – replacing the previous Best New Product award to better reflect the evolving landscape of modern mining operations.
The Queensland Mining Awards provide a prestigious platform for contractors, suppliers and mining companies to gain industry-wide recognition from peers and sector leaders. All entries will be assessed by an independent panel of industry experts using transparent, peer-reviewed judging criteria, and winners gain recognition in front of hundreds of peers during the Queensland Mining and Engineering Exhibition (QME).
Projects and initiatives developed or deployed in Queensland between April 2024 and April 2026 are eligible for entry across all categories, including Productivity, Innovation (METS and Miner), Safety, Environment, Collaboration, and Community/Staff/EEO Initiative. The standout performer across multiple categories will be named the 2026 Queensland Mining Contractor of the Year.
Queensland Resources Council Chief Executive Officer Janette Hewson said the Awards showcase the innovation driving Queensland’s vital resources sector.
“Queensland’s resources sector contributed $115.2 billion to the state economy in 2024-25 and supported nearly 550,000 jobs for Queenslanders from 0.1% of Queensland’s land mass,” Ms Hewson said.”The Queensland Mining Awards recognise the companies and people who are building mines of the future from a little bit of Queensland. The awards are a demonstration of innovation and safety standards that keep our industry at the forefront globally.”
Bowen Basin Mining Club Director Jodie Currie said the Awards continue to set the benchmark for mining excellence in Queensland.
“As we look toward the mine of the future, technology and innovation are more critical than ever,” Ms Currie said. “The Queensland Mining Awards spotlight the companies and individuals who aren’t just keeping pace with change – they’re leading it. Whether you’re a major operator or a nimble supplier, these awards offer the opportunity to demonstrate your contribution to Queensland’s world-class resources sector.”
With entries having opened on the 19 January and closing 24 April, companies have a small window to prepare submissions that could elevate their industry profile and open doors to new opportunities. Finalists will be announced on Friday 12 June, with winners revealed at the glittering Gala Awards Presentation Dinner on Wednesday 22 July 2026 during QME in Mackay.
For complete category information, eligibility requirements and to begin your entry, visit www.qldminingawards.com.