Arafura has begun construction at its Nolans rare earths project near Alice Springs in Australia. The planned mine and processing plant has 1.2 billion Australian dollars in public backing. A final investment decision followed in May. Government estimates put construction employment at around 600 jobs, with more than 350 operational roles once the facility opens.
Arafura Rare Earths has started construction at Nolans, its rare earths mine and processing project in Australia’s Northern Territory. The site is 135 km north of Alice Springs. The development moves the project from investment planning into construction, with ore-to-oxide production designed to take place in one integrated operation.[1], [2]
The Australian government described 1.2 billion Australian dollars in backing for the project. Support comes through infrastructure, critical minerals and reconstruction funds, alongside the country’s critical minerals strategic reserve. Public credit agencies from the United States, Canada, South Korea and Germany also joined the financing, according to the government, together with private investors. Industry and Innovation Minister Tim Ayres, Resources and Northern Australia Minister Madeleine King and Trade and Tourism Minister Don Farrell jointly announced the backing.[1]
The final investment decision was reached in May. The government linked that decision to an offtake agreement under the strategic reserve. It expects around 600 construction jobs and more than 350 operational roles. Resources Minister Madeleine King said the processed minerals would supply magnets used in electric vehicles and defence systems. The current milestone is construction; commercial production remains a later stage.[1]
