Media Release

23 February 2009

OZMINE 2009: Australian Mining Exhibition and Conference
24-25 February 2009

OZMINE 2009 - the 3rd Australian Mining Exhibition and Conference - is the largest international mining promotion organised by the Australian Government anywhere in the world. It will provide the opportunity for Indonesian industry to review the latest in mining technology, equipment and services, discuss the implications of Indonesia’s new mining law and examine the impact of the global financial crisis on mining.

The theme of this year’s conference is “Indonesia Mining for Tomorrow: Is the Mining Boom Over?” Indonesia’s Minister for Energy and Mineral Resources, Purnomo Yusgiantoro, will give the keynote address and officially open the conference and exhibition on 24 February.

Also on 24 February, the Indonesian Minister for Finance, Sri Mulyani, will speak on Indonesia’s new mining law and the opportunities and challenges for foreign investors; and Chief Executive Officer of the Minerals Council of Australia, Mitch Hooke, will give the Australian keynote presentation: “The Global Financial Crisis – What Prospects For Mining?”

Australian Ambassador to Indonesia Bill Farmer said the large number of Australian companies participating in OZMINE – more than 80 – reflects the importance of the mining sector for both Australia and Indonesia.

“The aim of the Australian presence at OZMINE is to bring our two industries closer together to foster long term, mutually beneficial business relationships,” Mr Farmer said.

“Even in challenging global economic times Australian companies remain very interested in doing business in Indonesia,” he said.

“Australia’s mining relationship with Indonesia is more than simply selling products and services. Australian companies are committed for the long term. They are looking at increasing their investment in this market and can bring real benefit to the development of the sector, especially in key areas like environmentally sustainable mining,” he said.

OZMINE 2009 is sponsored by major Australian companies including Thiess Contractors, Rio Tinto Indonesia, Orica Mining Services, and Leighton Contractors Indonesia.

Media Enquiries:
Toby Lendon (Public Affairs, Australian Embassy Jakarta))
Tel. (021) 2550 5290 hp. 0811 937 835