A new study that aims to unlock Western Australia’s under-utilised rare earth deposits and foster local processing industries could play a pivotal role in supporting the global energy transition.
The Cook Government has welcomed the announcement of funding for collaborative research into REE extraction, aiming to establish a new rare earth province in Western Australia.
This initiative is expected to unlock significant high-value critical minerals for advanced manufacturing and processing opportunities.
The Minerals Research Institute of Western Australia (MRIWA) has awarded A$175,000 to the study led by RSC, in partnership with Curtin University Resources Technology and Critical Minerals Trailblazer, Narryer Metals Ltd, Dreadnought Resources Ltd, Terrain Minerals Ltd and Pluto Resources Ltd.
"Western Australia's leadership in minerals research gives this State a unique opportunity to play a key role in decarbonising the critical minerals supply chain,” Mines and Petroleum Minister David Michael said.
"This research collaboration between the WA Government, industry and universities demonstrates the commitment of the Cook Government to a responsible and sustainable minerals industry.
"I look forward to the outcomes of this research enabling the activation of Western Australia's world-class mineral reserves in support of renewable energy opportunities globally."
Focused on the Yilgarn
Earlier MRIWA-supported research has already identified REE and strategic elements such as gallium and niobium within clay-hosted mineral deposits across the state. This new study will build on those findings, focusing on the mineral-rich Yilgarn region.
Future phases of the project may include establishing test facilities and exploring the processing and purification of REE deposits with the goal of developing a robust and sustainable local rare earth industry.
This initiative aligns with the Cook Government’s commitment to sustainable resource development, emphasising environmentally friendly extraction methods and solidifying Western Australia’s position as a leader in the global critical minerals sector.