A new bauxite mine is proposed to be developed in Far North Queensland following the signing of an agreement between Glencore and Mitsubishi Development Pty Ltd.
The proposed Aurukun Bauxite Project is anticipated to create up to 400 mining jobs as well as 250 construction jobs once it is approved.
“Keeping the state's resources industry and other industries open has been a key part of Queensland's plan for economic recovery.
“This announcement shows strong confidence in our resources sector and is great news for all Queenslanders with the potential jobs this project could create.
“If approved The Aurukun Bauxite Project could pave the way for more resources companies to invest in Queensland mineral projects,” Resources Minister Scott Stewart said.
The proposed mine is going to be located 23 kilometres north-east of Aurukun on the Cape York Peninsula.
The Aurukun Bauxite Project has the potential to produce up to 8 million dry tonnes of bauxite annually over its expected mine life of more than 20 years.
Currently, the Glencore – Mitsubishi Development joint venture is progressing all relevant State and Federal Government approvals required for the mine's development. This process includes the development of an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) and agreements with Traditional Owners.
“The involvement of Traditional Owners and the community is vital to the project's future success. Our vision is to achieve tangible, long-term benefits for the local community and Traditional Owners that align with their aspirations for their community and their country. This includes local employment and new business opportunities, as well as improved access to, and use of, traditional country,” Glencore Project Director Julian Farrugia said.
Glencore estimates the final EIS to be available for public consultation in mid-2021.
Once the project is approved for development, the joint venture partners will aim to reach a final investment decision in 2022.
“The Palaszczuk Government supports the resources sector for the royalties and jobs it generates, particularly in regional Queensland.
“The resources sector continues to support more than 68,000 jobs across our State and represents $49 billion in exports,” Minister Stewart said.
Bauxite is a key component in making aluminium, which is a recyclable and widely used metal in industries such as transport, construction and packaging.
Source: Queensland Government – Media Statements; Glencore (1, 2); Mitsubishi Corporation; Australian Mining