The WA Government is refreshing its Battery and Critical Minerals Strategy and is seeking feedback from stakeholders on how the State can position itself to attract investment and maximise value from the sector.
The refreshed strategy provides an opportunity to refocus policy frameworks to support the sector, as well as address immediate priorities and actions required to achieve our ambitions.
WA has seen rapid growth of value-adding battery and critical minerals industries since the introduction of the Battery and Critical Minerals Strategy in 2019.
Since then, nickel sulphate and lithium hydroxide refineries have been established – key chemicals for the manufacture of lithium-ion batteries. WA is also developing rare earths processing capabilities, a key input into a range of renewable and advanced technologies.
“A diversified battery industry is forecast to contribute nearly $17 billion in gross value added and over 61,000 jobs to the national economy by 2030. This is more than twice the value first estimated in 2021," said Energy Minister Bill Johnston.
"Western Australia is a globally significant battery and critical minerals processing hub and it is important we do all we can to further capitalise on this incredible opportunity.
“Hearing from the industry is critical to ensuring we have the right strategy in place to continue to grow into the future.”
The strategy aims to further grow WA’s battery and critical minerals industries, with an emphasis on increasing domestic value-adding and manufacturing.
Since the strategy was last updated in 2020, there have been changes in the international investment environment, including significant global policy shifts in the critical minerals and renewables industries.
This consultation paper delves into the distinct opportunities and challenges associated with WA’s battery and critical minerals sector and reflects learnings garnered from previous industry consultation and research.
