Queensland drives critical minerals exploration

The state is offering $5 million as part of the ninth round of CEI, with priority going towards the discovery of critical minerals used to make clean energy technologies.

Explorers can apply for funding of up to $250,000 to uncover minerals needed to construct renewable technologies such as solar panels, wind turbines, and electric vehicle batteries.

“We are continuing to back the resources sector and our explorers through our collaborative exploration initiative,” Queensland Critical Minerals and Resources Minister Scott Stewart said.

“The mineral exploration projects of today have the potential to become the major mining projects of the future, which is why these funding initiatives are crucial.”

The Queensland Government said the CEI program builds on the Queensland Critical Minerals Strategy and the CopperString 2032 project, which it hopes will unlock up to $500 billion in critical minerals across the North West Minerals Province.

“Overall mineral exploration expenditure in Queensland reached $919.7 million in the 12 months to June, a significant increase of $148.3 million compared to the previous year,” Stewart said.

“By investing in exploration now, we’re positioning Queensland as a global leader in supplying the essential resources needed for the renewable energy revolution.

“To build a truly decarbonised economy, we need bold explorers willing to take on the risks to uncover the next major critical mineral deposits, this funding initiative helps make that possible.

“The (Queensland) Government is proud to stand behind the resource industry and the explorers driving forward the projects that will secure Queensland’s place as a powerhouse in the global clean energy future.”

Applications will close on December 11 2024.