The export of iron ore and coal from Australia reached record levels due to a constant rise in demand for the materials in Japan, Korea and China.

The figures available are for the quarter ending December. The growth has been seen due to higher demand compared to the last quarter.

As per the figures given in ABARE's Australian Mineral Statistics December Quarter 2009 report, the total volume of coal exports crossed 74 million tons while the exports of iron-ore surpassed 98 million tons.

Despite this, the overall earning of the sector remained flat. The total earnings from the export growth came out to be just 1 per cent, making it reach $31 billion.

The less than expected rise has happened despite a 9 per cent rise in the value of Australian dollar for the period.

Talking about the whole scenario, Director, ABARE Paul Morris said that the exports have grown since more of the minerals are required in the steel mills and power stations of China, Japan and Korea.

While the index of export prices of Australian Energy and Mineral Resources declined by 5 per cent, the index for energy export price went down by 9 per cent.