New survey shows winners and losers from mining boom

AUSTRALIANS believe the mining industry saved the economy during the GFC but most want curbs on foreign investment and the use of overseas workers.

Only 10% of Australians believe they are financially better off as a result of the mining boom.

AUSTRALIANS believe the mining industry saved the economy during the global financial crisis but most want curbs on foreign investment and the use of overseas workers.

A major new survey - commissioned by SBS as part of its Dirty Business: How Mining Made Australia series to be screened from January 6 - shows Australians appreciate the benefits that mining has brought to the economy and its role in shaping the national identity.

News Ltd reports most people also believe mining has helped improve infrastructure and boosted property values.

But the survey of 1500 people also shows that the boom has created winners and losers.

Many believe they have not benefited directly from the boom, with 42% saying the boom had driven up the cost of living and offset any increases in incomes.

Only 10% of Australians believe they are financially better off as a result of the boom, compared with 53% who say it has made no difference to their personal finances.

The survey shows mining is most popular in regional areas.

The SBS series, touted as an epic story of mining, will feature three episodes covering money, power and land.

Originally published as New survey shows winners and losers from mining boom