Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack and Resources Minister Matt Canavan joined Federal Member for Parkes Mark Coulton on site at the Clean TeQ Sunrise mine and processing project at Fifield on Tuesday.
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The exciting new mining project near Parkes has the potential to put Australia at the heart of clean energy development.
The mine will produce cobalt and nickel sulphates which are critical in the production of lithium-ion batteries used in electric vehicles and will be one of the largest and highest grade nickel and cobalt producers outside Africa.
It will also be one of the world’s largest producers of high-grade scandium.
Scandium, when alloyed with aluminium, is used to create stronger and lighter metal products like bicycle frames and aircraft parts.
Mr McCormack said the project was of international significance.
“This project will firmly establish Australia as a reliable and high grade supplier of materials that will help to drive the ever-increasing number of electric cars on roads around the world, helping lower vehicle emissions,” Mr McCormack said.
Senator Canavan welcomed the development.
“Our resources sector is vital to our national prosperity and this project is a model of what an innovative business can achieve. Australia will reap the benefits,” Senator Canavan said.
“Mining is more important to a modern economy than it has ever been.
“Mobile phones, solar panels and electric cars all need a richer diversity of minerals than traditional industrial revolution products.
“Australia is in the lucky position of having some of the most diverse and highest quality minerals in the world, so we are impeccably placed to take advantage of this modern mining boom.”
Mr Coulton said the project will also provide a jobs boost to the region.
“At its peak this project is expected to employ a construction workforce of around 1,000 people and an ongoing workforce of 300 people.
“Local businesses will also benefit as suppliers of goods and services,” Mr Coulton said.
As announced recently, Clean TeQ has reached an ‘In-principle agreement’ with the three Shire Councils of Forbes, Lachlan and Parkes for a Voluntary Planning Agreement that will see Clean TeQ spend approximately $17 million funding a series of local initiatives.
“In addition to communicating the detail about Clean TeQ Sunrise, we are very proud to be able to inform our honourable guests about how this mine will help support and strengthen local communities of Lachlan, Parkes and Forbes,” Mr Riggall said.
