In an effort to position regional New South Wales as a major global supplier of critical minerals, the State Government has opened applications for the first round of its $130 million Critical Minerals and High-Tech Metals Activation Fund.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional New South Wales, Paul Toole, said the Critical Minerals and High-Tech Metals Activation Fund would help diversify and accelerate mining projects in regional areas.
Mr Toole said the state is rich in critical minerals and high-tech metals, such as rare earths, cobalt, copper, antimony and scandium, which are crucial to a range of emerging technologies including the defence space, the manufacture of electric vehicles, solar panels, and wind turbines.
“The New South Wales Government is investing more than $130 million towards the growth and future of the mining sector and I’m pleased to announce applications are now open for the first stream of this Fund,” Mr Toole said.
“It will help deliver a diverse, vibrant, investment-ready industry, ensuring New South Wales is ready to meet the rapidly expanding global market and giving a vital economic boost to our regional economies.
“To give projects the best possible start, grants of up to $500,000 will support key studies, research and development, such as feasibility studies, mine reuse processing studies, metallurgical testing and infrastructure, water, and environmental studies.”
Grants will be awarded through a competitive process and successful applicants will be required to provide a funding co-contribution.
For further information on the Critical Minerals and High-Tech Metals Activation Fund, including program guidelines and eligibility criteria, visit: regional.nsw.gov.au/activation-fundlaunch.
