The mining industry received more government assistance than manufacturing over the past 12 months, despite record mining profit levels, the Australian Manufacturing Workers’ Union complained today.

The Australian Bureau of Statistics today released figures that revealed the mining sector received 1.104 billion in federal, state or local government assistance in 2009/10, while manufacturing received $887million. The figures also show that the mining sector was 5 times as profitable while it was receiving those handouts. Mining profit margins averaged 33.4 per cent, while average manufacturing sector profit margins were only 6.5 per cent over same period.

AMWU said it is outrageous that mining profits are being propped up by government support at the same time as manufacturing is struggling with the high dollar and cheap imports.

The figures expose the myth that manufacturing relies on government support while mining pays its own way, according to AMWU National Secretary, Dave Oliver.

“Manufacturing is far more significant to the economy. It employs 5 times as many people as mining, and contributes far more to training and research & development.

“At the moment, manufacturing is facing significant challenges with the high exchange rate caused by the mining boom.

“It's shocking to see that mining profits are being propped up by the taxpayer, while manufacturing is receiving less government investment.

“Government investment in manufacturing is good value for the outcomes the industry delivers - employment, training and innovation.

According to Mr Oliver, the subsidies big miners are receiving should be redirected to manufacturing.