Industry Analysis & Industry Trends
Australia is a substantial producer of alumina, accounting for about one-quarter of the world total. Alumina production is expected to be 21.9 million tonnes in 2012-13, compared with 19.4 million tonnes in 2007-08. Alumina output is expected to grow strongly in 2012-13, as the full-year effect of large expansions at the Worsley, WA and Yarwun, QLD refineries is felt. Although some alumina is smelted into aluminium locally, the great bulk of output is exported. These exports, amounting to an expected 18.6 million tonnes in 2012-13, are estimated to generate revenue of $6.42 billion for the year. Imports of alumina are negligible by comparison. The size of the local market for alumina, estimated at $1.91 billion in 2012-13, is dwarfed by the value of exports... purchase to read more
Industry Report - Industry Analysis Chapter
The performance of the Alumina Production industry is heavily dependent on global economic conditions. World growth is a major driver of the demand for aluminium and consequently, alumina. Nearly all alumina produced in Australia is smelted into aluminium overseas, although some local smelting activity also occurs. Overall, industry revenue is expected to fall by about 2.1% per year over the five years through 2012-13, with profit declining more sharply. The weaker profit performance reflects rising labour and materials costs. Over the same period, the number of industry establishments remained unchanged at seven, while employment is expected to grow by about 1.2% per year, as firms expand output... purchase to read more