New lithium mine set to boost WA’s credentials as battery hub
The Mt Holland Lithium Mine and Refinery Project
The Mt Holland lithium project, a joint venture between Covalent Lithium, Wesfarmers, and SQM, marks a significant development in Western Australia’s mining sector. The project includes an open-cut mine and concentrator located southeast of Southern Cross in the Wheatbelt region and a refinery in the Kwinana Industrial Area.
Economic and Job Growth
The project has generated over 1,000 jobs during its construction phase and is expected to sustain 350 jobs once operational. This job creation is accompanied by a $60 million road upgrade investment by the WA Government to enhance road safety and freight efficiency.
Production and Environmental Impact
Mt Holland is expected to produce 380,000 tonnes of spodumene concentrate annually, refined into 50,000 tonnes of lithium hydroxide. This output is sufficient to power around one million electric vehicles. The initiative underscores the shift towards net zero emissions, with the refinery set to begin producing lithium hydroxide in early 2025.
Government Support and Industry Outlook
The Cook Government’s support has been crucial, particularly in funding and delivering the Moorine Rock to Mt Holland road. This project exemplifies the region’s commitment to becoming a global hub for battery materials manufacturing, benefiting from the Kwinana Industrial Area’s infrastructure.
Lithium has become WA’s second most valuable mineral, with the state being the largest global producer since 2012. This project contributes to consolidating that position and diversifying the economy while creating jobs.
