IMARC kicks off with policies aimed at bolstering Australia’s mineral supply chain and green industry investments.
The Australian and New South Wales (NSW) governments today spotlighted the importance of critical minerals, technological innovation, and sustainability at the International Mining and Resources Conference and Expo (IMARC).
Key representatives, including The Hon. Madeleine King, Minister for Resources, and The Hon. Courtney Houssos, NSW Minister for Finance and Natural Resources, addressed attendees with a focus on expanding Australia’s mineral supply, encouraging sustainable growth, and advancing toward net-zero emissions.
Minister King emphasized that the transition to net-zero is dependent on Australia’s commitment to critical minerals. She called for the mining sector to showcase its essential role and positive contributions.
“The resources sector is crucial to Australia’s prosperity and our ability to meet net-zero targets,” King stated. “The industry must continue to tell the story of its role in the energy transition, the economic benefits it provides, and the high standards of safety and environmental care it maintains.”
The conference emphasized how critical minerals are vital for the energy transition and economic growth. King urged the industry to tell a positive story, showcasing its contributions to the country’s prosperity and net-zero goals.
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NSW’s Focus on Energy and Investment
Minister Houssos echoed these sentiments, noting NSW’s push to develop energy opportunities and attract green industry investments. “NSW is on the cusp of realising the opportunities in energy, but we know we’re not alone in the global race,” she said.
“We will need six times the amount of critical minerals currently mined to meet net zero commitments—and we know all of this can be found in NSW. Here in NSW, our message is clear. We are open for business.”
The NSW government also launched its Critical Minerals Strategy, which Houssos outlined. The plan focuses on five pillars: fostering exploration, securing investments, developing skills, advancing processing, and supporting responsible mining.
“Our new strategy sets out a clear vision for NSW to be a leader in critical minerals and high-tech metals. This generates economic prosperity through responsible exploration, mining, processing, recycling, and advanced manufacturing,” Houssos said. “We want NSW to be moving further down the supply chain. Extracting minerals is a critical first step, but we can generate strong economic returns and support more jobs by getting into processing and advanced manufacturing.”
Government and Industry Collaboration Key to Success
The strong government presence at IMARC highlighted its role as a forum for strategic planning in the resources sector. Anita Richards, Chief Operating Officer of IMARC, noted the conference’s importance as a platform for collaboration among government, industry, and investors.
“IMARC 2024 not only highlights Australia’s commitment to sustainable mining and net-zero objectives. It also serves as a key platform for fostering innovation, collaboration, and investment in critical mineral development. This paves the way for a resilient, future-ready mining industry,” she said.
With the IMARC conference underway, Australia’s critical mineral strategy is clearly aligning toward sustainable growth and global competitiveness. The commitment to expanding mineral supply chains and advancing green industries is essential for the nation’s path to net-zero emissions.