The exchange rate is a problem for every industry that faces competition from overseas. Manufacturing, agriculture, IT, even things like accounting and legal work where you can ship the work electronically.
Aviation is actually in a better position than many industries, as you do have to be in Australia to transport someone from Melbourne to Sydney.
Mining isn't exempt. The exchange rate impacts any profits from mining exports kept in Australia. Mining profits that go overseas are not impacted so much, as they will be converted to/from the dollar at similar exchange rates...