Mining Proposal and Works Approval Paves Way for Start of Construction and Mining at Kathleen Valley

The Kathleen Valley Lithium Project in Western Australia has reached a significant milestone with the approval of its crucial permits and licenses. We are pleased to share that the WA Department of Mines, Industry, Regulation and Safety (DMIRS) has approved the Mining Proposal and Mine Closure Plan for the 4Mtpa operation. Additionally, the WA Department of Water and Environmental Regulation (DWERS) has granted Works Approval to enable construction and operations at the site.

These recent approvals, along with previously obtained permits including the Native Vegetation Clearance Permit and 5C Water Extraction Licence, signify the completion of all primary approvals required to commence major site construction works and subsequent mining activities. The collaboration with the Tjiwarl Aboriginal Corporation has played a crucial role in securing these permits.

With the necessary approvals in place and the Final Investment Decision (FID) announced in June 2022, we now move into the execution phase of the project. The ramp-up of major site works will build upon the progress achieved during early works, with 68 rooms in the Accommodation Village already delivered to site.

Significantly, two-thirds of construction tenders for Kathleen Valley have been issued and are currently being awarded in a progressive manner. Contracts for all key long-lead items have already been executed, leading to the commencement of manufacturing processes.

The approvals and progress made at Kathleen Valley highlight our commitment to responsible and sustainable resource development. As construction moves forward, we aim to leverage the strong progress achieved during early works to ensure the successful implementation of the mine and processing plant.

The Kathleen Valley Lithium Project has attracted significant attention due to its strategic importance in the global lithium market. The project’s construction and subsequent operations will contribute to the growing demand for lithium, a critical component in the production of lithium-ion batteries used in electric vehicles and energy storage systems.