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Posted by Allen Newton
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30 Jul, 2026
WESTERN Australia’s biggest mining and energy companies have delivered a mixed bag of results.
Woodside Energy led the pack, reporting a 28% jump in quarterly operating revenue to US$4.18 billion (A$6 billion) as global fuel volatility pushed up spot‑exposed LNG and condensate prices.
The company realised US$85/boe, up 35% and narrowed its full‑year production guidance on the back of strong performance at Senegal’s Sangomar project.
Its WA portfolio remained highly reliable, with Scarborough now 98% complete, and the North West Shelf and Pluto LNG assets operating above 97% reliability.
A $700 million drilling phase at Greater Western Flank 4 is set to begin next year, adding new supply from 2028.
Across the Pilbara, Rio Tinto posted higher first‑half earnings on the back of stronger copper and aluminium markets and its best Pilbara iron ore performance since 2018.
Underlying EBITDA rose, free cash flow strengthened, and the company lifted its interim dividend by more than 40%.
Rio also highlighted progress across its WA iron ore replacement mines, keeping long‑term supply stable.
BHP released its FY26 operational review confirming steady iron ore output at WAIO, improved performance at South Flank, and ongoing cost pressure in nickel.
The company’s full‑year results point to stable margins in iron ore despite softer steel demand in China.
Fortescue reported solid shipments in its half‑year and March quarter updates, maintaining guidance while advancing its decarbonisation and green energy projects.
WA iron ore volumes remained consistent, though costs were influenced by labour and logistics constraints.
Mineral Resources delivered record volumes across mining services, iron ore and lithium in its latest results, with Onslow Iron continuing its ramp‑up and Wodgina and Mt Marion producing at the top end of guidance.
The company reduced net debt and strengthened liquidity while flagging further growth in its lithium portfolio.
