The International Mining and Resources Conference offered a range of programs and networking opportunities for mining companies at this year’s event.
The International Mining and Resources Conference + Expo (IMARC) 2025 was a standout event for the mining industry.
With a focus on strengthening supply chains, optimising costs and driving productivity, this year’s program brought together the entire mining value chain, from investors and innovators to mine site operators and policy leaders, for three days of deals, ideas and collaboration.
It returned with an expanded program, new features and a renewed focus on strengthening supply chains, optimising costs and driving productivity, IMARC will be the platform where people can meet, collaborate and chart the industry’s future.
IMARC event director – content and partnerships Sherene Asnasyous said the 2025 theme was curated in direct response to macro-level industry changes.
“Earlier this year, there was a lot of new nuance in the industry, with commodity pricing, trade tariffs and all of that affecting relationships between countries and companies,” she said. “That’s been a strategic anchor in curating the program across all levels, from plenary discussions and keynote presentations to the exhibitor profile and investment stream.”
This year’s focus has been on ensuring the program reflects not only the big-picture geopolitical shifts but also the operational realities facing mine sites. Asnasyous said the macroeconomic environment has driven a “stronger focus on optimising costs and productivity at a much more operational level”.
From resilient procurement strategies to automation with measurable returns on investment, speakers from companies like BHP, Thiess and Sandvik shared how they are re-imagining supply chains and deploying technology that balances productivity with sustainability.
A tailored event experience
Recognising the potential challenge for operational leaders to attend industry events, IMARC has introduced its Mining Operators Program and Hosted Buyer Program. These initiatives aim to remove participation barriers for those directly responsible for implementing on-site change. The Mining Operators Program offers customised opportunities at the event, such as show-floor walks, focused conference sessions and continuing professional development (CPD) accreditation. Those working at the frontline of mining operations can attend IMARC for free using the expanded Mining Guest Pass.
“If they’re going to be away from site for three days when costs are being scrutinised, the program balances opportunities with removing barriers or risks,” Asnasyous said.
The Hosted Buyer Program connects high-level procurement leaders from mining companies and contractors with exhibitors and sponsors in curated meetings. This allows for targeted discussions on procurement requirements, capabilities and upcoming projects.
With capital markets tightening and investors becoming more selective, the Mines and Money stream at IMARC remains a crucial platform for connecting with global investors.
Asnasyous said the event attracted a range of opportunities.
“Capital is not as easy to come by, depending on what commodity you are,” she said. “The platform offers a critical opportunity for companies, especially explorers and developers, to pitch directly to global funds, family offices sovereign wealth groups and institutional investors.”
The event program included investment pitch battles, pre-arranged meetings and a digital Connect platform enabling juniors and investors to engage before the event and meet on-site.
IMARC 2025 also deepened its commitment to First Nations engagement, women in mining and the next generation of industry professionals. Alongside the return of Indigenous Women in Mining and Resources Australia (IWIMRA), the event is introducing Australian Mining and Energy Employment (AMEE) as a partner, hosting a First Nations pavilion for the first time with around 15 Indigenous companies showcasing their products and services.
Asnasyous said these initiatives have been woven into the conference program to help ensure Indigenous perspectives are heard across topics such as sustainability, finance and technology.
Women from across the sector will also feature in diverse panels and sessions, building on IMARC’s “Balance for Better” commitment.
The NextGen Program continues to provide pathways for students and early-career professionals, with more than 400 school students expected to attend.
“It’s their first exposure to the broader mining ecosystem,” Asnasyous said. “It’s great for the industry to showcase its support for the next generation.”
New features
Three major additions for 2025 also highlighted IMARC’s role as a hub for industry innovation and global leadership:
Innovation Investment Alley – a fast-track platform for emerging companies and start-ups to connect with venture capital and corporate venture arms
International Government Meet and Greet – facilitating bilateral discussions between trade delegations, with a focus on critical minerals, infrastructure and environmental, social and governance (ESG) partnerships
Expanded Awards Program – introducing the Mining Beacon Breakthrough Innovation Award and the Next Gen Leaders Award alongside the longstanding Legend in Mining recognition
“These features reflect IMARC’s evolution from a traditional mining conference into a global platform for innovation, investment and cross-border collaboration,” Asnasyous said.
This article appeared in the Spring edition of Mining Magazine.
