The Western Australian Government has committed A$1.4 billion to strengthen and diversify its mining and resources sector, with a sharp focus on green metals, downstream processing, and regional economic growth.
WA Premier Roger Cook and Treasurer Rita Saffioti announced the new budget measures, framing the state’s resources sector as one shifting from its traditional iron ore dominance toward a future defined by battery materials, rare earth development, and clean-tech manufacturing.
WA Premier and Treasurer unveiling the budget. (WAtoday)
Budget Highlights for the Mining Sector
Outlined below are key allocations and initiatives directly supporting mining diversification:
- A$500 million Green Metals Investment Fund
To accelerate private-sector investment in battery minerals, rare earths, and downstream processing projects. - A$250 million for Regional Industrial Precincts
Including land servicing, port infrastructure, and power upgrades to support lithium, nickel, and HPA facilities. - A$120 million for Training and Workforce Programs
To build capacity in metallurgical processing, mine electrification, and critical mineral operations. - A$230 million Aboriginal Economic Development Package
Focused on Indigenous mining employment, ranger programs, and local contracting. - A$300 million Climate Infrastructure Package
Supporting mine electrification pilots, water recycling, and green hydrogen integration into mining sites.
Concept map of WA’s green metals regions — Pilbara, Goldfields, Mid West. Source- ResearchGate
Government & Industry Response
Premier Roger Cook called the budget “a down payment on WA’s future competitiveness,” highlighting the state’s ability to supply not just raw materials but also processed and value-added products.
“From lithium to rare earths, Western Australia is already a critical link in the global supply chain. This investment ensures we stay ahead by delivering jobs, cleaner technologies, and a more resilient economy,” Cook said.
Treasurer Rita Saffioti added that the package supports both major producers and emerging miners in high-impact growth corridors like the Kwinana industrial precinct, Collie transition zones, and Goldfields tech-metals belt.
Projects in Focus
Several upcoming or recently approved projects stand to benefit directly from this new investment:
- Covalent Lithium’s Kwinana Refinery Expansion
- ILUKA’s Eneabba Rare Earths Processing Facility
- Lynas Rare Earths downstream integration
- Albemarle and Tianqi lithium refinery support upgrades
Additionally, infrastructure upgrades in the Oakajee and Boodarie regions could unlock major project timelines by reducing approval bottlenecks and service constraints.
Drone view of Kwinana Lithium Hub. (SOURCE: The WA)
ESG and Transition Minerals in Spotlight
The budget reflects a broader push for WA to take a leadership role in low-emission minerals supply chains. According to WA’s Department of Jobs, Tourism, Science and Innovation, the state hosts:
- 85% of Australia’s lithium production
- Significant undeveloped nickel and cobalt reserves
- One of the most advanced rare earth value chains outside China
The Green Metals Investment Fund will also back cleaner processing technologies, such as acid-free leaching, low-carbon alumina refining, and waste-to-energy systems for off-grid operations.
Also Read: MinRex Resources Completes RC Drilling at Fraser Range Copper-Gold Project in Western Australia
Conclusion: Future-Proofing Western Australia’s Mining Economy
The A$1.4 billion funding initiative signals that WA’s government isn’t waiting for global market shifts—it’s actively positioning the state for long-term relevance and environmental responsibility.
From regional workforce development to advanced mineral processing, the 2025–26 budget is a strategic bet on innovation, sustainability, and sovereign supply strength. For miners, investors, and regional communities alike, the message is clear: WA is not just mining rocks—it’s building the future.
