The Tasmanian Government is launching a renewed effort to seek, extract and process high-value minerals vital for advancing technology and supporting a sustainable future through the release of the Critical Minerals Strategy.
Critical minerals are foundational to advancing modern technology, from medical devices and electronics to renewable energy systems.
Minister for Business, Industry and Resources, Eric Abetz, emphasised that the Critical Minerals Strategy harnesses Tasmania's unique geological assets and renewable energy advantages, setting the state on a path to becoming a leader in the supply of critical minerals for global markets.
"Tasmania is among the most mineralised places on the planet and this new strategy aims to leverage our unique geological advantages to attract local investment, create jobs and support a low-carbon economy," Minister Abetz said.
"The strategy focuses on identification of new mineral reserves to drive investment and development of critical mineral processing and value-adding capacity in Tasmania for the best possible return.
"Tasmania's mining and minerals processing sector is already worth almost $3 billion a year and supports around 6,800 local jobs, and the government's 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania's Future will drive further growth as well as increasing the value of exported mineral products."
Minister Abetz highlighted that critical minerals are essential for powering the next generation of technologies, from renewable energy systems to advanced electronics, which is why the Tasmanian Government is investing $3 million to accelerate this strategy.
"Tasmania has significant mineral potential and a renewable energy advantage which provides the perfect setting for investment in the development of our resources for the benefit of all Australians," Minister Abetz said.
"With this strategy, we aim to build a sustainable future while cementing Tasmania's role as a global source of critical minerals."
The Tasmanian Critical Minerals Strategy is available on the MRT website at www.mrt.tas.gov.au
