The global demand for South West Western Australia’s critical minerals is increasing due to decarbonisation goals, and the potential opportunities for Australia if it continues to supply and process critical minerals was a topic of discussion at a recent industry lunch.
Held on 2 November, the event provided an opportunity to shine a light on how the state’s South West can further seize opportunities opening up as demand increases for the region’s commodities, used in goods such as lithium batteries, and unlock jobs as part of Western Australia’s future as a global green energy superpower.
The forum also offered a chance for attendees to hear more about the Western Australia Government’s support for the growth of the critical minerals and battery industries in Western Australia.
Among those taking to the stage were representatives from Albemarle, Talison Lithium, Future Battery Industries Cooperative Research Centre, and the Department of Jobs, Tourism, Science and Innovation.
The event was organised by the South West Development Commission in partnership with the Department of Jobs, Tourism, Science and Innovation, Bunbury Geographe Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and Collie Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
The Regional Development Commissions are considered essential to the Western Australian Government and its efforts to expand and diversify the state’s regional communities.
Western Australian Regional Development Minister, Don Punch, said the state has the ingredients to support global decarbonisation efforts.
“The South West is home to the world’s premier hard rock lithium mineral deposit, located in the region at Greenbushes,” Mr Punch said.
“This has put the region in an enviable position – including the ability to attract significant investment in downstream processing from international players such as Albemarle.
“The transition to a clean energy future is opening up new opportunities for the South West and wider Western Australia – and it has been valuable to explore these opportunities at the Critical Minerals Industry Luncheon in Bunbury.”
