Impact of COVID-19 on the leadership of operational leaders in the oil, gas, and mining sector of Australia

The Challenge

​​The pressing need addressed by this research lies in comprehensively understanding the profound impact of COVID-19 on Australian resource industry operational leaders and their employees. The scale of the pandemic surpassed previous crises, necessitating an in-depth exploration of the changed roles, leadership styles, and strategies employed by leaders. The identified gaps in existing research highlight the limited examination of protracted COVID-19 effects on leaders’ well-being and their teams. Stakeholders affected include operational leaders and employees. The economic, environmental, and social impacts are significant, encompassing workforce resilience, mental health issues, and burnout. This research aims to fill these critical gaps, offering practical insights into crisis leadership and providing recommendations to enhance health, safety, and well-being in the Australian Resources Industry. The outcomes will contribute to future research, policy development, and the identification of opportunities emerging from the challenges posed by the COVID-19 crisis.​

Proposed Solution

​​This project aims to investigate the impact of COVID-19 on the roles and leadership styles of Australian resource industry operational leaders, focusing on their role in fostering employee wellbeing and resilience. The findings will inform strategies for enhancing leadership practices and promoting resilience in the face of challenges within the industry.​

Proposed Benefits to WA

​​The proposed research will yield significant economic, environmental, and social benefits to Western Australia’s resources industry. By understanding the impact of COVID-19 on operational leaders and employee resilience, the study aims to enhance leadership practices, fostering a safer and healthier work environment. Improved mental health and well-being of mine workers contribute to increased productivity and reduced absenteeism, directly benefiting the economic aspect. Socially, the research aims to strengthen the mining, oil and gas community by promoting a supportive workplace culture. Additionally, the findings may inform policies and practices that enhance the environmental sustainability of the industry. Ultimately, the anticipated improvements in health, safety, and well-being not only benefit individual workers but also contribute to the overall sustainability and positive societal impact of the mining industry in Western Australia.​