What happened
The Department of Industry, Science and Resources forecast Australia's resource and energy export earnings to rise to $422 billion in 2026–27, up from $403 billion in 2025–26. High energy commodity prices driven by Middle East disruptions will boost LNG export earnings by 27 per cent to $70 billion, while iron ore export revenue is projected to ease to $107 billion.
Why it matters here
Energy market tightness is providing a strong near-term windfall for Australian gas and coal producers, helping offset declining earnings from bulk commodities like iron ore. However, the government projects total export earnings will gradually drift down to $379 billion by 2030–31 as supply chains normalize and global commodity prices soften over the medium term.
What to watch
The December quarterly Resources and Energy report, alongside Middle East supply developments and Chinese steel demand indicators impacting iron ore prices.
Source
industry.gov.au