Abstract: Following an introduction to the state-of-the-art of Australian coal industry, including the coal output and the number and special features of the operation of the coal preparation plants in current operation, a brief analysis is made of the main measures and effective practices adopted by Australian coal preparation industry for simplifying coal cleaning processes and enhancing plant system reliability and operation efficiency. Through analysis and comparison of the differences that actually exist between China and Australia in coal preparation sector, the aspects calling for domestic engineers concerned to undergo a change of ideology are proposed. Finally, the author puts forward the proposals on the direction of innovation in which the design and development of domestic coal preparation plants should be proceeded, as well as the key research programs that need to be tackled.