New copper mine in NSW approved for development

Aeris Resources’ Constellation Project has been approved by the New South Wales Government for development, and this will further secure the State as a leading destination for investment in critical minerals while boosting the supply of copper to support the State’s renewable energy transition. 

This is the first new critical minerals and high-tech metals project to be approved under the Minns Labor Government. 

Not only will this mine provide a new source of high-quality copper ore, but it will also support the long-term sustainability of the Tritton Copper Operations – also owned and operated by Aeris Resources. 

The Constellation Project is located near the Tritton Copper Mine in Western New South Wales, between Nyngan and Cobar. The project will include the development of an open-cut pit and underground mine which will have an expected average production capacity of 500,000 tonnes of copper ore annually. 

This project is expected to generate about 125 construction jobs (90 jobs at the mine) as well as up to 225 jobs (178 jobs at the mine) at peak operations. 

In addition, the mine is forecasted to contribute approximately $42 million in royalties to the people of New South Wales over its estimated 16-year life. 

Construction of the Constellation mine is expected to begin soon, with operations scheduled to start before the end of this year once construction is completed. 

“This approval is another step forward for NSW’s clean energy transition. And expands the state’s role in global critical minerals supply chains. 

“Once operational, the mine will become a crucial cog in the renewable energy supply chain, providing copper for the creation of solar panels and electric vehicles, among other products. 

“This is another example of the Minns Labor Government helping drive the shift to renewable energy to create a bright and sustainable future while supporting the creation of more jobs in regional NSW,” Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said. 

The New South Wales Government has designated copper as one of the State’s five priority metals as part of the NSW Critical Minerals and High-Tech Metals Strategy, highlighting it vital function in the global shift to net zero technologies and, at the same time, reinforcing the State’s role in supporting global supply chains. 

The State’s copper industry is already booming, with production increasing by a third over the past three years – about 190,000 tonnes of copper was produced last year. To fulfil global demand and to transition the global energy grid, the production of copper will have to be doubled. 

Copper is a critical component of solar panels, electric vehicles, data centres and advanced electrification. It is also commonly used across consumer goods, construction, transport, industry and infrastructure due to its highly conductive and durable nature. 

The State’s 15 major metals and critical minerals mines employ about 6,000 people, mostly across the Central West and Far West regions, delivering valuable jobs and economic benefits for regional New South Wales. 

Over the past year, the Minns Labor Government has partnered with industry to launch an open survey data to enable exploration and provided around $2.5 million in matched grants to spark investment in the sector. 

“Global demand for copper is rising rapidly, with prices climbing more than 20 per cent this year and our state can step up and meet this demand. 

“It is encouraging to see this approval, with the NSW Government recently supporting 21 copper projects under our Critical Minerals and High-Tech Metals Exploration Program. 

“Copper will play a critical role in the global renewable energy transition. In 2024, around 30 per cent of copper demand was for new energy technologies and electrification, and by 2030 this could be around 35 per cent. 

“With world-class geology, innovative technology, and a clear regulatory system, NSW is well positioned to attract continued investment in critical minerals exploration and production,” Minister for Natural Resources Courtney Houssos said. 

Source: NSW Government – Media Releases; Australian Mining; Resources Review