North West Phosphate’s John Cotter with deputy premier Jarrod Bleijie and Assistant Minister for Primary Industry Development, Water and Western Queensland, Sean Dillion. Photo: North West Phosphate

THE QUEENSLAND Government has declared the PhosOne phosphate rock project in the state’s north-west a prescribed project, a move set to streamline approvals for the pit-to-production venture.

A joint venture between Australian company North West Phosphate Limited (NWP) and Sibanye-Stillwater (SSW), PhosOne will grow local production of phosphate rock concentrate for use in agriculture as fertiliser.

The declaration as a prescribed project will mean a streamlined approval process for the integrated project, which is expected to generate $1.4 billion in economic value and create 240 ongoing and 490 construction jobs in north-west Qld.

The project will mine phosphate ore from NWP’s new $150 million Paradise South mine, 130km northwest of Mount Isa, before being transported to Century mine for processing.

Additional processing of the concentrate will then occur at the Port of Karumba before the phosphate rock concentrate is shipped to trade partners.

The mine development is being expedited following funding of $5.77M from the Mount Isa Mining Acceleration Program.

Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning, Jarrod Bleijie said the PhosOne project could generate significant jobs and economic development for the North West.

“Designating this venture as a prescribed project highlights its significance for the region and starts the comprehensive approval process,” Mr Bleijie said.

“We are committed to delivering secure jobs and opportunities, growing the industries that keep our regions strong.”

Qld Coordinator-General Gerard Coggan said it was vital to create avenues of support for different sectors through critical mineral expansion and production.

“Ensuring Queensland continues to be set up for success through projects that balance social and economic needs is central to the Office of the Coordinator General,” Mr Coggan said.

NWP managing director John Cotter said the prescribed project status was a strong signal of support from the Qld Government and provided welcome momentum as the project is progressed through the joint-venture study phase.

“This declaration supports the project’s continued development and planning, and recognises the long-term strategic value a project like PhosOne could offer in terms of securing phosphate supply, supporting regional employment, and contributing to domestic fertiliser production,” Mr Cotter said.

“PhosOne has the potential to deliver a stable, long-term economic boost for the North West Minerals Province.

“We appreciate the government’s recognition of the project’s potential and look forward to continuing to work closely with our partners, local communities, and stakeholders as we move through the next phase.”

Source: Queensland Government