Australian Vanadium Limited’s (AVL) flagship project has been awarded major project status by the Western Australian Government.
The status was bestowed under the Lead Agency Framework, which is designed to focus the efforts of government towards projects that are aligned with the state’s decarbonisation and economic diversification agenda.
Major project status will enable AVL to work with the WA Government to access clearer assessment pathways and provide high-quality, fit-for-purpose, timely support for proponents and investors.
It has been described as a “single entry point” for government approvals, and involves ongoing project support and coordination, including help navigating regulatory approvals.
In early 2024, a merger was completed between AVL and Technology Metals Australia which consolidated an 18km orebody east of Mt Magnet to enable a single integrated project now known as the Australian Vanadium project.
The project is touted to be one of the largest and highest-grade vanadium deposits being developed globally.
AVL is in the process of completing optimised feasibility studies for the project in order to parse out the best path to production.
“Being recognised under the Western Australian Government’s Lead Agency Framework is a significant development for AVL, highlighting the project’s importance in Australia’s energy transition,” AVL chief executive officer Graham Arvidson said.
“This recognition strengthens our ability to secure approvals efficiently, drive local job creation and establish Western Australia as a leader in the global critical minerals supply chain.
“We look forward to collaborating with the government to accelerate project development and deliver lasting benefits to Australia’s economy and clean energy future.”
The Australian Vanadium project includes an open-cut vanadium mine and concentrator at Gabanintha, near Meekatharra, where AVL will produce a high-grade vanadium concentrate.
This will be transported to AVL’s proposed processing plant at Tenindewa, near the port city of Geraldton, where it will be refined into high-purity vanadium oxides and an iron concentrate coproduct for export via Geraldton Port.
