No — and this is one of the biggest myths stopping people from applying.

Mining employers care far more about reliability, work ethic, and safety mindset than age. In fact, many prefer mature workers because they tend to have better attendance, stronger discipline, and real-world work experience.

What matters is how your resume presents you. If it looks like a general career history instead of a site-ready profile, recruiters may overlook you — but that’s a positioning problem, not an age problem.

We regularly help people in their 40s, 50s and beyond transition into mining by reframing their experience into what employers actually value.

👉 If you’re over 40 and unsure how to break in, book a consult — we specialise in mature-age transitions.

You must be at least 18 years old to work on most Australian mine sites. This is due to safety regulations, insurance requirements, and the high-risk nature of the work.

Some traineeships and apprenticeships exist for younger people in related trades, but actual mine site roles generally require adulthood, full medical clearance, and strict safety compliance.

For most people, the real barrier isn’t age — it’s understanding how to present themselves as work-ready.

👉 If you meet the age requirement and want to know your next step, a strategy consult can give you a clear pathway.