Gold produced in Australian mines rose to its highest level in six-and-a-half years in the June quarter after established producers increased output, newly commissioned mines were ramped up and new or `recycled' operations came on stream.

A survey by Melbourne-based industry consultants Surbiton Associates Pty Ltd showed gold output in the three months to June 30 totalled 2.2 million ounces, up 11 per cent on the previous quarter and 20 per cent higher compared with the same period in 2009.

AAP