A 10-year plan has been released by the Federal Government based around critical minerals processing.

The Resources Technology and Critical Minerals Processing road map shows how businesses can capitalise on Australia’s access to resources, which will be needed to manufacture new technologies. 

Modern manufacturing initiative

Prime Minister Scott Morrison says applications under the $1.3 billion Modern Manufacturing Initiative are opened to projects in the priority area, to help manufacturers scale-up production, commercialise products and tap into global supply chains.

“Our Modern Manufacturing Initiative will help position Australia as not just a global leader in the resources sector but also in the manufacturing of the technology used, as well as turning the raw materials into value-added products.” Mr Morrison says.

Spotlight on Queensland’s critical minerals might

“This investment and this road map will support jobs across Australia, particularly in our resource-rich regions like the Hunter, Western Australia and Central Queensland.”

Minister for Industry, Science and Technology Karen Andrews says the new road map sets out a 10-year vision to build sophisticated manufacturing capability in Australia in the resources sector.

Value adding to critical minerals

“Opportunities outlined in the road map include turning critical minerals into high value products like batteries and solar cells, as well as technologies and equipment that makes mining more efficient and safe,” she says.

“This funding will back businesses to pursue those opportunities and turn innovative ideas into high-value products so we can build on Australia’s competitive advantage and secure greater investment and market share.” 

This road map complements the Government’s initiatives to reduce electricity prices, boost liquid fuels security and invest in low emissions energy technology through Australia’s Technology Investment Roadmap.   

Fresh pitch for critical minerals investment

Minister for Resources, Water and Northern Australia Keith Pitt says it also complements the Government’s Critical Minerals Strategy.

“The Government is committed to bringing on new supplies of critical minerals and developing this emerging sector to meet growing global demand,” he said.

“Developing our critical minerals processing capability will ensure Australian companies can move down the value chain, getting greater value out of the products they produce.”

The road map also identifies how we can develop our resources technology to maximise efficiencies in our high performing resources sector he says.

For more information on the road maps and available grant funding visit industry.gov.au/manufacturing .