Nolans rare earths mine breaks ground in Northern Territory
Arafura's Nolans Project held its ground-breaking ceremony north of Alice Springs after two decades in development.
The $1.8 billion rare earths mine is backed by the US and Australian governments and billionaire Gina Rinehart. The mine will operate for nearly 40 years.
Building the mine and processing plant will take about three years. The mine will produce neodymium and praseodymium, minerals used in magnets for electric vehicles, wind turbines and defence systems.
The federal government committed $1.2 billion in support. Officials promised hundreds of jobs during building and aim to reduce China's global dominance in rare earths.
The project reached final investment decision earlier this year after being in development for two decades.
- $1.8 billion
- Investment
- $1.2 billion
- Federal support
- 135 kilometres north of Alice Springs
- Location
- Nearly 40 years
- Mine lifespan
Why it mattersAustralia gains a crucial source of minerals the world needs for clean energy and defence, reducing reliance on China.
AustraliaThe mine will bring hundreds of construction jobs to the Northern Territory and position Australia as a major player in a critical global supply chain.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 3 h ago
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