Growing Australia’s critical minerals sector

The Morrison Government is backing Australia to become a world leader in the processing and export of critical minerals, laying the groundwork for new jobs in rural and regional Australia.

Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment Dan Tehan today launched a new report showcasing Australia’s world-class critical minerals mining and processing opportunities.

The report highlights more than 40 projects that provide immediate investment and offtake openings across 24 critical minerals.

“Rising global demand for critical minerals for use in advanced technologies presents a huge opportunity for Australia,” Mr Tehan said.

“Our nation’s rich natural resources and skilled mining workforce will mean Australia can play a major role in developing new supply chains, helping countries around the world accelerate their transition to low-carbon energy.

“As we head towards a net-zero world, demand for critical minerals in advanced technologies such as renewable energy, aerospace, defence, electric vehicles, telecommunications, energy storage and agri-tech will continue to grow.

“The development of Australia’s critical minerals sector means more jobs in construction, infrastructure and mining.

“This report is a valuable, timely resource that builds on the work of previous editions launched in 2019 and 2020.”

The 2021 prospectus includes technical, commercial and geological data to support investment in Australian critical minerals projects.

“It recognises Australia as a partner of choice for supply chain resilience which offers investors a stable business environment, transparent regulatory frameworks and a government committed to supporting critical minerals projects,” Mr Tehan said.

The document’s launch follows the recent announcement from the Morrison Government to establish the $2 billion Critical Minerals Facility for Australian critical minerals projects.

“The Morrison Government is firmly committed to advancing Australia’s position as a world leader in the critical minerals sector,” Mr Tehan said.

“The $2 billion facility will help Australian project proponents move into production to meet rising global demand, and create new jobs across Australia.”

The Prospectus was prepared by the Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade). A copy can be found at Resources and energy | Australian Trade and Investment Commission.