BHP Billiton will provide $1.2bn to develop an open pit mine, as part of the first phase of the Olympic Dam project in South Australia.

The company will use the funds to procure long lead items such as trucks and accommodation, as well as for infrastructure development and early site works.

Discover B2B Marketing That Performs

Combine business intelligence and editorial excellence to reach engaged professionals across 36 leading media platforms.

Find out more

The project is currently in the feasibility stage and will progress into execution once it completes all required studies and receives board approval.

The pre-commitment capital is conditional on the successful passage of the indenture agreement through the South Australian parliament.

BHP Billiton CEO Marius Kloppers said that the project team is completing studies to create one of the world’s largest open pit mines with the potential to increase copper production from around 180,000t to 750,000tpa and beyond.

 

GlobalData Strategic Intelligence

US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?

Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.

By GlobalData

Mining Technology Excellence Awards - Nominations Closed

Nominations are now closed for the Mining Technology Excellence Awards. A big thanks to all the organisations that entered – your response has been outstanding, showcasing exceptional innovation, leadership, and impact

Excellence in Action
Dual-award winner in the 2025 Mining Technology Excellence Awards, Propeller is redefining geospatial intelligence and safety in mining. Explore how its AeroPoints and DirtMate solutions deliver survey-grade mapping, live haul metrics, and safer, more efficient operations across mines and quarries worldwide.

Discover the Impact