The Methods Theme brings together researchers, knowledge and facilities from university partners and will collaborate with Industry partners to revolutionise how mining operations approach the extraction, processing and design of mining methods by evaluating and integrating innovative technologies such as long-distance directional drilling, biomimetic autonomous vehicles, modular processing units and generative AI. These projects enhance mining efficiency, sustainability, and adaptability, especially for hard-to-reach, low-grade mineral deposits. By leveraging real-time data attained during research as well as from POs, ML and nature-inspired engineering, the Methods Theme aims to develop mining technologies that minimise environmental impact and waste, and optimise resource recovery. Integrating advanced sensors, autonomous systems, and AI-powered platforms will enable more precise decision-making, and create adaptable mining methods tailored to the unique challenges of critical mineral extraction.