Almost $1 billion will be put into major infrastructure projects at the Olympic Dam mine, as part of BHP’s commitment to a transformational copper expansion in South Australia’s far north. In 2024/25, the site produced about 320,000 tonnes of copper. However, demand for the metal is soaring worldwide thanks to its crucial role in renewable energy, electric vehicles, and global electrification. Copper is considered one of the most important materials for the net zero transition, making this expansion a project of global significance.

BHP’s ambition is to make Olympic Dam, located 560km north of Adelaide, one of the world’s largest copper smelters. The company is targeting 500,000 tonnes of refined copper cathode per year by the early 2030s, and as much as 650,000 tonnes by the mid-2030s. A final investment decision on increasing production is expected by mid-2027. However, work is already underway on a suite of major infrastructure projects that will generate significant opportunities for construction workers and trades across multiple disciplines.

So, what are the company’s plans?

New underground access tunnel

BHP plans to build a major new tunnel to unlock the Southern Mine Area. This will improve access to the underground operation and make it easier to move workers, machinery and materials. Construction of the tunnel alone is expected to generate around 200 jobs. Demand for tunnelling specialists, civil engineers, concreters, and support trades will bring the project to life.

Underground rail network extension

The existing underground rail system will be extended from 4.8km to more than 6km. Six new locomotives will be added, allowing copper ore and equipment to be moved more efficiently through the mine. This will involve track laying, ventilation, power, and signalling works. This will create a wide spread of construction, electrical, and mechanical roles over several years.

New backfill delivery system

This system will stabilise underground mining areas by pumping cement paste through a dedicated pipe network. In turn, it will make it possible to safely access and mine ore that was previously out of reach. For construction workers, this means opportunities in concrete works, pipe installation, and plant construction, with a strong focus on safety and engineering standards.

New oxygen plant

A purpose-built oxygen plant will lift smelting capacity from 80 to 85 tonnes an hour. By using oxygen to remove impurities, the plant will allow Olympic Dam to produce cleaner, higher-grade copper more efficiently. Building the facility will require significant civil, mechanical, and electrical input, along with ongoing maintenance roles once operational. It highlights the importance of integrating heavy industry infrastructure with advanced technology.

Expanded accommodation

The mine village will be expanded by more than 1,000 rooms to house an expected 1,600 additional workers. This extra workforce will be needed for major smelter maintenance in 2027, ahead of the planned expansion. Large-scale construction of housing, facilities, and amenities will open the door for carpenters, plumbers, electricians, and fit-out specialists. This ensures the project is supported by a fully functioning community.

With so much investment flowing into copper, South Australia is set to become a global leader in resources and infrastructure. That means fresh opportunities for construction workers, trades, and professionals across tunnelling, rail, plant building, and large-scale civil works. These projects will not only boost copper output. They will also reshape the state’s construction landscape for years to come.

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Article References

Evans, S (1 October 2025) ‘BHP still spending at Olympic Dam amid doubts over expansion plan’, Financial Review, accessed 2 October 2025.

Reuters (1 October 2025) ‘BHP earmarks $555 million to boost copper production in South Australia’, Reuters, accessed 2 October 2025.

Tauriello, G (25 September 2025) ‘BHP Olympic Dam: $105m village with more than 1000 rooms’, The Advertiser, accessed 2 October 2025.

Starick, P (2 October 2025) ‘BHP reveal almost $1bn investment at Olympic Dam to unlock Copper SA province’, The Advertiser, accessed 2 October 2025.