Mining bodies lash plan for thermal coal tax

Mining organisations have slammed proposals being considered by the Federal Government for an additional tax on thermal coal exports. The NSW Minerals Council said such moves would harm the state’s economy and its coal mining communities while representing a significant broken election promise, unlikely to be temporary, and would potentially be extended to other sections …

Jindalee spins out Australian assets

Jindalee Resources is proceeding with the spin-out of its Australian assets into a new listed vehicle, Dynamic Metals. The move will enable Jindalee to focus its attention on the development of the advanced McDermitt lithium project in Oregon, USA, while simultaneously providing an opportunity for investors to gain increased exposure to the company’s earlier-stage exploration …

Small-scale miners backed by Queensland government

The Queensland government is planning to introduce a suite of changes to support the continued operation of small-scale miners in the state, with a moratorium on new claims to end on November 24. Resources Minister Scott Stewart said mining claims would remain in the state’s mining laws , with the moratorium serving its purpose of …

Study proves Jervois’ high grades and longevity

The feasibility study into KGL Resources’ Jervois copper project in the Northern Territory has confirmed that it is technically robust and financially viable. Based on a copper price of $US4.23 per pound, the figures support a high-grade copper mine with concentrate production for an initial mine life of 11.25 years. The study reflects the impact …

$250 million in funding for Pilbara Minerals

Australian lithium producer Pilbara Minerals has secured a 10-year debt facility from the Australian Government, through the Export Finance Australia (EFA) and Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility (NAIF) agencies, to support the expansion of its Pilgangoora operation in Western Australia. EFA has approved finance of the US$ equivalent of $125 million, whilst NAIF has agreed to …

Energising mine closure through renewables

Adapting old mine sites to generate clean energy has long-term benefits for companies, communities and the environment. Mine-closure planning traditionally focuses on reducing a site’s environmental liability, with the goal of restoring the landscape as close as possible to its pre-mining status.  But what is less considered is the potential for mine-closure planning to create long-term benefits by …

Green steel and onshore lithium poised to reduce emissions

Plans to produce green steel in the Pilbara and a push to process lithium onshore could lead to a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions in the iron ore and steel sectors. Zero Emissions Steel Technology (ZESTY), developed by Australian technology company Calix Limited, produces steel using green hydrogen rather than coal and hope that its …

BHP flags megatrends and IR laws at AGM

The Big Australian explored a number of themes at this week’s annual general meeting (AGM). BHP chair Ken MacKenzie highlighted the fact the miner’s portfolio is positioned to benefit from several so-called megatrends. “The changes we have made across BHP align your company with the megatrends of decarbonisation, population growth, and demand for higher standards …

Komatsu kicks goals with Western Sydney Wanderers

Komatsu has confirmed a sponsorship with the Western Sydney Wanderers (WSW) for a second year. The A-League women’s football team will be supported by Komatsu for the second year in a row as part of the the company’s organisational focus on diversity and inclusion. WSW calls Sydney’s major construction corridor home, making the team an …