** Australian mining sub-index .AXMM falls 1.2%, hitting its lowest level since September 12, 2024

** Sub-index tracks lower iron ore prices from Thursday IRONORE/

** Sub-index fell as much as 2.6% in early trade

** Major miners Rio Tinto RIO.AX, BHP Group BHP.AX and Fortescue FMG.AX fall between 1.4% and 2.6%

** Sub-index down 3.5% this year, including the day's move

(Reporting by Shivangi Lahiri in Bengaluru)

((shivangi.lahiri@thomsonreuters.com;))