Avenira Limited has received mining authorisation from the Northern Territory Government to commence mining at Wonarah Phosphate Project.
According to the Territory Government, the Wonarah Phosphate Project, situated 300km east of Tennant Creek, is set to generate 25 jobs initially and increase to 50 during the Direct Shipping Ore program.
“This is the 9th significant mine approval in the past three years and is further proof the Territory Labor Government is backing our resources industry,” Minister for Mining and Industry Nicole Manison said.
“The Wonarah Phosphate Project further cements the Territory’s reputation as a globally significant hub for resources and critical minerals,” Minister Manison added.
The initial exports will be for phosphate rock, with future exports set to supply Avenira’s Lithium Ferro Phosphate project at the Middle Arm Sustainable Development Precinct.
The Government noted that both projects offer substantial economic and strategic prospects for the Northern Territory.
Phosphore, traditionally used in agricultural fertiliser, is now in high demand as a critical mineral in electric vehicles and energy storage batteries.
“We have the resources the world needs to transition to net-zero emissions and green energy and we support the projects that make this happen,” Minister Manison stated.
Avenira and the Arruwurra Aboriginal Corporation have executed a Mining Agreement to create sustainable commercial outcomes and social benefits for Arruwurra’s members, prioritising local aboriginal people and businesses for employment or contracting opportunities.
The authorisation acknowledges the previous environmental impact assessment and recommendations in the NT Environment Protection Authority’s Environmental Assessment Report 64.
Avenira Director Brett Clark said the approval of the company’s Mining Management Plan is a crucial step in delivering its proposed LFP cathode production plant.
“Completing this project will see Darwin become a key supplier of critical materials to the global battery market,” Clark stated.
“The signing of the MMP follows the conclusion recently of formal agreements with our technology partner Aleees, which shows this project is moving forward very positively,” he added.
