Ava Haine’s journey into the mining industry began with a passion for problem-solving, working with people, and making a real impact. Growing up in Moura, where mining kept the town alive, she witnessed the opportunity that the industry offered so for her it wasn’t just a career path, it was a chance to help shape the future of an industry that played such a vital role in her community.
At 16, Ava joined Anglo American as a school-based trainee in business and finance. Today, she works full-time as an Associate Mining Engineer in Drill & Blast, where she’s been empowered to lead meetings, plan operations and contribute to real production outcomes.
However, her impact extends far beyond the pit.
Through her role, Ava has championed youth involvement in STEM, led sustainability initiatives, and represented young people in mining through programs like the Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy (QMEA) and Women in Mining and Resources Queensland (WIMARQ).
Ava’s commitment extends beyond advocacy. She actively mentors aspiring engineers, speaks at local schools, and participates in workshops that aim to break down barriers for young women considering careers in traditionally male-dominated fields.
Ava’s proudest achievement to date was being named a winner in the Country to Canberra Leadership Competition. Coming from a small rural town, being recognised on a national level for advocating rural voices gave her a platform to take that advocacy even further.
Through the program, she spoke directly with federal politicians, connected with trailblazing women in leadership, and shared what life is really like for young people growing up in remote Australia.
Being named Young Citizen of the Year and attending national leadership programs has shown Ava just how powerful young people can be when they’re given the platform to lead. She is preparing to represent young Australians at the AFS/United Nations Youth Assembly, where she will join young changemakers from around the world to discuss solutions to global challenges.

Ava is passionate about encouraging other young people, especially those from rural and regional areas, to explore careers in the resources sector. Her message is clear: “You don’t have to wait to be older, more experienced, or ‘qualified enough’…you can start now and grow into the leader this industry needs.”
She also wants young people to know they can build a successful career in mining without leaving the place they call home.
Balancing a thriving career with active involvement in community projects is no easy feat, but Ava’s drive comes from her deep gratitude for the opportunities she’s had. Growing up surrounded by mentors and role models who empowered her to believe in herself and chase big goals, she feels a responsibility to give back.
Through her work with older adults in digital literacy, she has helped bridge the generational divide by empowering seniors to navigate technology with confidence.
If Ava could introduce one new initiative in her community, it would be a Youth Innovation Hub in Moura, a space where young people could explore trades, technology, sustainability, leadership and entrepreneurship while staying connected to their community.
The best advice Ava has ever received is simple yet powerful: “You can’t be what you can’t see…so be the one who shows it’s possible.”
Every time she steps into a new space, whether it’s her workplace, Parliament House, or an international stage, she carries the awareness that she’s not just there for herself. She’s there for the young girl in a small town wondering if she belongs. That advice has shaped how she leads, how she shows up, and why she keeps pushing forward. It’s why she continues to speak up, show up, and create pathways for others to follow.