How is Australia positioning itself to meet future lithium demand?

Australia is strategically positioning itself to meet the anticipated surge in lithium demand by expanding its mine production capabilities and enhancing its supply chain. Capacity expansions at key projects, including Pilgangoora are expected to bolster production and drive growth. Furthermore, new refineries are being developed to process lithium domestically. This focus on both extraction and refining aims to reduce reliance on third countries and strengthen Australia's role as a leading global supplier of lithium.

What are the main challenges facing lithium processing and refining in Australia?

Australia faces significant challenges in lithium processing and refining, primarily due to a lack of domestic infrastructure. Currently, about 98% of Australia's spodumene concentrate is exported for processing, mostly to China. While Australia excels in lithium extraction, the processing and refining stages of the supply chain require substantial development. Additionally, there is a need for low-emission processing infrastructure to minimise environmental impacts and ensure compliance with regulatory standards.

What role does battery recycling play in the sustainability of the lithium market in Australia?

Battery recycling is pivotal to the sustainability of the lithium market in Australia, as it addresses both environmental concerns and resource efficiency. Currently, only about 10% of lithium-ion battery waste is recycled, but as the demand for batteries increases, recycling rates are expected to rise significantly. Developing a robust battery recycling industry will not only reduce waste but also create a circular economy where valuable materials are reused.

What innovations are necessary for Australia to maintain its competitive edge in the lithium market?

To maintain its competitive edge in the lithium market, Australia must invest in innovative technologies and sustainable practices. This includes developing direct lithium extraction methods and low-carbon refining technologies that reduce the environmental footprint of lithium production. Strengthening legislative frameworks to encourage domestic refining and battery material production is also essential. Fostering collaboration between academia, industry, and government, along with enhancing community and Indigenous engagement, will be crucial for long-term success.

Macro

Features

Lithium in Australia: the future of the ‘white gold’ rush

The global lithium market is undergoing a period of flux. Following years of solid growth, prices have plummeted from their…

Scarlett Evans
Analysis

Retrofitting mining trucks: an alternative path to electrification

“In our industry,” Perenti’s head of mining electrification and technology, Darren Kwok, told MINE Australia, “we want to understand something…

Andrew Tunnicliffe
Interviews

Q&A: can recycling help companies prepare for a lithium boom?

An anticipated spike in lithium demand is causing companies to reconsider their supply chains, with the International Energy Agency estimating…

Scarlett Evans
Features

Deep-sea mining remains a hostile battleground

Ever the disruptor, in April, US President Donald Trump took a naked flame to the already incendiary issue of deep-sea…

Andrew Tunnicliffe
Features

Why Chile’s mines are turning to the sea

Water is a critical input in mining, used to process ores, suppress dust and cool equipment – but in Chile’s…

Alejandro Gonzalez

Partner Content

Autonomous vehicles: How China is leading mining’s next economic driving force

In an early indication of the country’s steely focus on automation advancements, China's National Development and Reform Commission, the Ministry…

Annaliese Watkins
News

Changing public perception key to boosting critical minerals development

Meeting demand for critical minerals “requires a profound shift in perception and more education”, Bernd Schäfer, CEO of EIT RawMaterials, said…

Claire Jenns
Features

Exploring Australia’s push for green aluminium

Aluminium is the second most used metal globally after steel, essential in everything from aviation and marine applications to electric…

Scarlett Evans
Comment

Considerations for the transition towards EVs in mining

Several mines around the world are leading the way in adopting electric vehicles (EVs) to enhance sustainability and reduce carbon…
Analysis

Exploring US efforts to find a secure supply of rare earth elements

In April, China imposed a new round of export controls on seven rare earth elements (REEs) that are essential for…

Caroline Peachey