A dependable critical minerals partner

Australia is a secure, reliable source of critical minerals and strategic materials. We have some of the world’s largest reserves of critical minerals, including lithium, cobalt and rare earths. See the Australian Critical Minerals Prospectus for investment-ready projects.

  • We are the world’s no.1 lithium producer.
  • We are a world leader in resources exploration, extraction, production and processing.
  • Australian mining has a reputation for safety, high labour standards, First Nations engagement and environmental responsibility.

The Australian Government’s Critical Minerals Strategy 2023-2030 outlines Australia’s vision, objectives and focus areas. We aim to grow our critical minerals sector, making the most of opportunities from the global net zero transformation. The strategy includes support to finance mining and processing projects, and investing in international partnerships.

Australian Critical Minerals Prospectus

The Australian Critical Minerals Prospectus is published as an interactive tool, and is also available as a summary download. It helps facilitate investment in critical minerals, showcasing investment-ready projects across Australia.

Our competitive advantage in critical minerals

Australia has an extensive pipeline of critical minerals projects. This is supported by our mining engineering, technology and services (METS) sector. Our global competitive advantage is built on:

  • a highly skilled resources workforce
  • over 6,000 METS companies
  • reliable and transparent regulation
  • security of tenure and dependable contract law
  • increasing access to renewable energy for mining and mineral processing
  • supportive governments, policies, incentives and programs.

Around 80% of Australia is ‘under-explored’, according to Geoscience Australia (Source, Geoscience Australia, Exploring the Future: Why are we doing it). The Australian Government will invest A$566.1 million over 10 years from 2024–25 to deliver data, maps and other tools for the resources industry. The initiative will point the way to new discoveries and lead to the full mapping of Australia over the next generation.

The long-term initiative, led by Geoscience Australia, underscores the Australian Government’s commitment to put the resources industry at the heart of its Future Made in Australia plan.

Secure, stable supply

Australia’s resources industry has built a reputation in Asia as a reliable supplier of minerals:

  • Established supply chains, including for critical minerals
  • Long-established trading partnerships in the Asia-Pacific region
  • Excellent environmental, social and governance (ESG) practices
  • A globally respected legal system
  • Ongoing investment in low-carbon extraction.

How we can help

A leading destination for critical minerals

Australia is creating opportunities for overseas investors and suppliers. The goal is to help diversify supply chains and secure a reliable supply of critical minerals.

As the global economy evolves more industries will require critical minerals to develop the next generation of technologies from smartphones and electric cars to wind turbines, solar panels and space shuttles.

Australia can supply the world with the critical minerals needed to power these technologies.

Global companies can leverage australia's leadership in mining and benefit from our advanced technologies and skilled workforce to mine and process critical minerals efficiently, safely and responsibly.

With major greenfield and shovel-ready projects our world-class deposits are ready for off-take and investment.

As a stable, low-risk mining destination Australia offers many opportunities for you to diversify supply chains and secure a reliable supply of critical minerals.

Contact the Australian Trade and Investment Commission for more information.

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