Australia controls 82% of global zircon reserves and leads mineral sands
Australia holds the world's largest mineral sands deposits and is the top rutile producer.
Mineral sands feed the global titanium industry. Mineral sands supply materials for aerospace, defence and consumer goods.
Australia holds the world's largest reserves: it has 51% of global ilmenite, 65% of rutile and 82% of zircon. In 2024, Australia led rutile production with 44% of global output.
Iluka Resources is the largest local producer. The company was built on more than 70 years of mining history.
It made more than $430 million in revenue in the first half of 2026. New projects are starting across Australia.
This includes PTR Minerals' Rosewood discovery in South Australia, which the company calls world class in size and grade.
- 82% of global
- Zircon reserves
- 44% of global in 2024
- Rutile production
- $430 million in first half 2026
- Iluka revenue
- More than 70 years
- Iluka history
Why it mattersThis dominance supports global supply chains in defence, aerospace, and consumer goods.
AustraliaThe sector supports major mining operations across WA, SA and NSW, and could become increasingly important for export earnings and strategic supply security.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 2 h ago
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