Commodity Online reported that carbon tax introduced in Australia affects little over the investments in the iron ore sector, the major players like BHP Billiton and Rio Tinto continues with their investment in the mineral resource.

Mr Martin Hoffman acting secretary, Department of Resources, Energy and Tourism said "In our contact with them we have seen no change in those plans to continue the substantial expansions in port facilities and mines in the iron-ore sector."

According to BHP's September Quarterly reports, its Western Australian iron ore shipments rose 28% higher than the previous corresponding period to a record annualized rate of 173 million tonnes a year in September 2011.

The Chinese demand for iron ore has been the driver for the Australia major producers.

(Sourced from www.commodityonline.com)