An additional $27 million will be invested by the NSW Nationals in the state government to fund advanced stage mining infrastructure projects and exploration for critical minerals.
Deputy Premier and Minister responsible for Resources Paul Toole has announced the successful recipients for Stream Two of the Critical Minerals and High-Tech Metals Activation Fund and Round Five of the New Frontiers Exploration Program.
“Our Critical Minerals and High-Tech Metals Activation Fund paired with co-contributions will see $65.4 million invested in three advanced-stage projects to deliver major infrastructure and remove barriers for investment which will support the critical minerals sector in NSW,” Mr Toole said.
“This is about making sure our State is in the best position to lead Australia’s critical minerals boom.
“Valuable deposits including silver, lead, zinc and cobalt, rare earths and minerals sands will drive future technologies like advanced manufacturing, ag-tech, aerospace and renewables, and it’s companies right here in NSW which are leading the charge.”
Mr Toole said the New Frontiers Exploration Program would support explorers in search of metallic minerals including critical minerals and high-tech metals deposits in NSW.
“We have the technology to discover where these deposits are located. Round Five of this program will provide $1.5 million to 22 explorers with grants for exploration drilling and geophysical programs to ensure future projects are able to hit the ground running,” Mr Toole said.
“By funding programs like these, we are bringing to life our vision for NSW to be the number one investment destination for mining, exploration and advanced manufacturing.”
For further information on the successful recipients visit: regional.nsw.gov.au/activation-fund and meg.resourcesregulator.nsw.gov.au/geoscience/new-frontiers-exploration-program