METS Ignited said these benefits would only be realised, however, if Australia's technology sector acted immediately and collaboratively to "drive a globally competitive supply chain".

This was the key finding in the 'Staying ahead of the game' report, which was prepared by economic consultancy AlphaBeta to understand the positive impact of technology on Australia's mining and oil and gas industries.

METS Ignited chief executive Adrian Beer said digital automation represented a "real and immediate opportunity".

"Australia has the right foundation and experience to create a highly competitive resources technology ecosystem," he said.

"As an industry, we must focus on having the right framework in place to realise this vision: actively upskilling our workforce for their future roles; strengthening collaboration among industry, government and education providers; investing more in commercially orientated research and development."

Beer said successful implementation would have broader community benefits through improved environmental and safety standards, as well as promoting greater investment in regional centres.