Home » Latest News » McGowan Government welcomes lithium joint venture
Exploration Latest News Resource Extraction & Processing

McGowan Government welcomes lithium joint venture

McGowan Government welcomes lithium joint venture

  • ?WA lithium project receives funding from Chilean company
  • Expected to create up to 780 jobs for Western Australians
  • First time a Chilean company has invested in a WA mining project

 

The McGowan Government has welcomed a landmark agreement between Kidman Resources and Sociedad Química Minera de Chile (SQM). A 50:50 joint venture established between the companies will develop and operate Kidman’s world-class Mt Holland lithium project, located near Southern Cross.

The joint venture partners plan to build a downstream lithium refinery in Western Australia – increasing the State’s presence in this emerging field. About 200 jobs will be created during the mine site’s construction phase and approximately 200 full-time jobs once operating. At the refinery, up to 200 jobs are expected to be created during construction and 180 full-time processing operational jobs.

Mines and Petroleum Minister Bill Johnston said “I welcome the joint venture between Kidman Resources and Sociedad Química Minera de Chile, and the confidence shown in WA. SQM is a world leader in lithium and chemical production, and we look forward to the expertise and skills they will bring to our State. “The McGowan Government is committed to supporting WA’s mining sector and creating jobs.”

Add Comment

Click here to post a comment