Construction has begun on the Alcoa-Sojitz Gallium Recovery Project in Western Australia, with the Australian Government describing the development as a step towards strengthening domestic manufacturing and critical minerals supply chains.
The first sod was turned at Alcoa’s Wagerup Alumina Refinery on 24 August, marking the start of a project expected to establish Australia as a significant producer of gallium, a critical mineral used in advanced manufacturing, defence technologies and semiconductor production.
In a news release, Minister for Resources and Northern Australia Madeleine King said the project represented an important investment involving Australia, Japan and the United States, with support from the Western Australian Government.
“[The] groundbreaking marks an important step forward for Australia’s critical minerals industry,” King said.
“This is a real example of how Australia, together with trusted partners, is stepping up to lead on critical minerals and rare earths globally.”
Minister for Industry and Innovation and Minister for Science Tim Ayres said the project would contribute to Australia’s industrial capabilities.
“Investments like the Alcoa-Sojitz Gallium Recovery Project are about building Australia’s industrial strength,” Ayres said.
“By partnering with trusted allies and investing in capability here at home, we’re creating a more resilient economy and securing Australia’s place in the industries of the future.”
Once fully operational, the facility is expected to produce up to 10 per cent of the world’s gallium supply, according to the Australian Government.
The government said this output would contribute to global demand for gallium while strengthening supply security for international partners.
The government did not provide further details on the project’s investment value, construction timeline or expected employment in the media release.
