Cook Government Backs Rare Earth Elements Extraction Research in WA

The Resources Technology and Critical Minerals Trailblazer welcomes the latest investment in research to unlock Western Australia’s rare earth elements (REE) potential, reinforcing the state’s role in the global energy transition.

A newly announced study, supported by a $175,000 grant from the Minerals Research Institute of Western Australia (MRIWA), aims to identify and develop a new rare earth province in WA. This initiative brings together industry, academic, and government players, including research lead RSC; Curtin University via the Resources Technology and Critical Minerals Trailblazer; and industry partners Narryer Metals, Dreadnought Resources, Terrain Minerals, and Pluto Resources.

WA Mines and Petroleum Minister David Michael said the news gave the state a unique opportunity to play a key role in decarbonising the critical minerals supply chain. “This research collaboration between the WA Government, industry and universities demonstrates the commitment of the Cook Government to a responsible and sustainable minerals industry. I look forward to the outcomes of this research enabling the activation of Western Australia’s world-class mineral reserves in support of renewable energy opportunities globally.”

Building on prior MRIWA-backed research that successfully identified high-value rare earth elements and strategic elements such as gallium and niobium in clay-hosted deposits, this study will focus on further exploration within the mineral-rich Yilgarn region. The outcomes could pave the way for new processing capabilities and advanced manufacturing opportunities in Western Australia.

Future phases of this research may lead to the establishment of test facilities and pilot projects to explore the processing and purification of REEs. By developing a sustainable and competitive local rare earth industry, this project strengthens WA’s position as a leader in critical minerals extraction and processing.

Importantly, the project aligns with the industry’s drive toward environmentally responsible extraction methods, ensuring WA remains at the forefront of sustainable resource development. These advancements support not only local economic growth but also the global renewable energy transition, leveraging WA’s vast mineral reserves for a cleaner future and a major objective of the Trailblazer program.

Visit the WA Government Media site for the full announcement.