Western Australia has been ranked in the top 20 mining jurisdictions in the world for attracting investment, a new survey shows.
The 2010-11 Fraser Institute survey ranked WA 17th out of 79 jurisdictions, up two places from last year.
Mines and Petroleum Minister Norman Moore said the results were very pleasing, especially considering the uncertainty surrounding the federal government's proposed mining tax.
"The state government's reforms to the approvals process have offered greater transparency and certainty for industry and this was reflected in the latest survey's results," Mr Moore said.
"Overall, the survey contained some positive feedback regarding the transparency and reliability of our approvals process.
The survey also ranked WA as the most attractive Australian jurisdiction for mineral potential, ranking it eighth overall after a 19th ranking in last year's survey..
"State Government initiatives such as the $80million Exploration Incentive Scheme, funded by the Royalties for Regions program, play an important role in demonstrating the potential for discovery of a wide range of mineral commodities that continue to attract investment in WA exploration," Mr Moore said.
