Australia FIFO Mining Jobs: BHP Says Artificial Intelligence Will Augment Jobs, Not Steal Them
The Australian Financial Review
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Details
- Date Published
- 10 Apr 2026
- Priority Score
- 1
- Australian
- Yes
- Created
- 9 Apr 2026, 08:00 pm
Description
The world’s biggest miner says artificial intelligence has helped it detect problematic objects that could damage machinery, and to save $50 million a year.
Summary
BHP's implementation of computer vision AI to detect oversized foreign objects (OFOs) demonstrates the increasing integration of autonomous systems in critical industrial infrastructure. While the technology yields significant operational returns and reduces mechanical damage, it reflects a shift toward automated oversight in physical environments. This expansion of AI capabilities into the physical world raises questions about the long-term safety and reliability of autonomous heavy industry systems. The article focuses primarily on economic productivity and job augmentation within the Australian mining sector rather than existential safety risks.
Body
Peter KerResources reporterApr 10, 2026 – 5.00amForget about unidentified flying objects (UFOs), it’s the oversized foreign objects (OFOs) that scare BHP chief technical officer Johan van Jaarsveld.When a large, awkwardly shaped rock slips through the defences of BHP’s Australian iron ore division, the result can be a blocked crusher or a torn conveyor belt.Loading...SaveLog in or Subscribe to save articleShareCopy linkCopiedEmailLinkedInTwitterFacebookCopy linkCopiedShare via...Gift this articleSubscribe to gift this articleGift 5 articles to anyone you choose each month when you subscribe.Subscribe nowAlready a subscriber? LoginLicense articleFollow the topics, people and companies that matter to you.Find out moreRead MoreThe AI DividendBHP GroupMineral explorationIron oreRio TintoAIPerspectiveAFR WeekendPeter KerResources reporterPeter Ker covers resource companies for The Australian Financial Review, based in Melbourne. Connect with Peter on Twitter. Email Peter at pker@afr.comFetching latest articles