Report says SA's mining workforce to grow

A NEW report suggests 35,000 more jobs will be created in South Australia's mining sector by 2030.

EMPLOYMENT in South Australia's resources sector will need to more than triple by 2030 to meet demand, a study has found.

The Resources and Engineering Skills Alliance (RESA) says an analysis of the state's mining workforce requirements suggests an extra 35,000 workers will be required on top of the existing 15,000.

It says companies are planning for this growth over the next 16 years with 40 new mining and infrastructure projects in the pipeline.

RESA chief executive Phil de Courcey says the increased demand poses a serious challenge to the state to access the right talent pool in sufficient numbers.

"There is no doubt that South Australia can look forward to a strong growth of mining-based employment across the three spheres of supply chain companies, developing mines and operational mines," Mr de Courcey said in a statement on Tuesday.

The RESA report suggests the highest demand will be for crusher and dragline operators, exploration drillers, laboratory assistants, underground and open-cut miners and administrative support workers.

Towns in South Australia's north and on Eyre Peninsula are likely to be key centres for employment growth including Leigh Creek, Roxby Downs, Coober Pedy, Port Lincoln, Ceduna and Tumby Bay.