Queensland advances $1.23b graphite project

The Queensland Government is advancing a major project in North Queensland with the release of the environmental impact statement (EIS) terms of reference for Graphinex’s Esmerelda graphite project.

Subject to approval, the project could extract up to 3.5mtpa of ore to produce about 25mt of graphite concentrate over a 50-year project life, creating up to 100 construction jobs and 113 operational jobs at peak production.

Queensland Deputy Premier and State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Minister Jarrod Bleijie says the Queensland Government is committed to backing projects that supercharge the economy and restore investor confidence in the state.

“Our government is about creating lasting economic opportunities for regional Queensland, attracting global interest and positioning the state as a key player in the minerals supply chain,” he said.

“The [Queensland] Government is serious about cutting through red tape and delivering jobs and economic certainty for regional communities.”

Graphite is considered a critical mineral in Australia for its essential uses in lithium-ion batteries, renewable energy technology and advanced electronics.

While Australia is considered to hold significant reserves of graphite it is lacking in large scale production, making it vulnerable to supply chain insecurity, according to the Minerals Research Institute of WA (MRIWA).

Queensland Natural Resources and Mines Minister Dale Last says the project is a vote of confidence in the government’s plan to drive new mining investment.

“We’re serious about restoring certainty for the resources sector to deliver a better lifestyle for Queenslanders through a stronger economy,” he said.

“This project has the potential to deliver more than 200 local jobs and underpin decades of economic opportunity in North Queensland.

“This important milestone shows that by cutting through delays, we’re creating an environment where investors can plan with confidence to create jobs across our regions.”

The broader community will have the opportunity to provide feedback during the public notification of the draft EIS.