Western Australia will soon welcome a new major potash production and export development following the grant of Major Project Status to Reward Minerals’ $450 million Lake Disappointment Brine and Sulphate of Potash project.
Reward Minerals will aim to produce approximately 400,000 tonnes of sulphate of potash annually from mining as well as brine evaporation facilities at Lake Disappointment.
“The Lake Disappointment project will strengthen the security of Australia’s agriculture sector and support the Government’s Ag2030 agenda to boost Australia’s agricultural production to $100 billion a year by 2030.
“Not only will the project improve domestic and global supplies of potash fertiliser, it will also create hundreds of jobs during construction and into the broader supply chain once completed.
“Awarding Major Project Status recognises the importance of the project to Australia’s economy and exports, and will help the project deal with Government approvals,” Minister for Industry, Science and Technology Christian Porter said.
This multi-million-dollar project is anticipated to generate about 230 jobs during its construction and a further 200 jobs once it is operational.
In addition, the development of Lake Disappointment Brine and Sulphate of Potash project will aid the Australian Government’s northern Australia agenda to boost economic growth and open new job opportunities across the north.
“The Lake Disappointment project has an initial life of 25 years and will help Australian farmers access the fertiliser they need to improve production and grow food for both Australia and for export.
“Importantly, the project will create new opportunities to export potash, and is in an ideal location to supply growing markets in Southeast Asia, India and potentially East Africa.
“The project will also provide employment opportunities and royalties to the Martu Traditional Owners,” Minister for Resources, Water and Northern Australia Keith Pitt said.
The Lake Disappointment Brine and Sulphate of Potash project is located approximately 320 kilometres east of Newman, in a remote area of the Pilbara region.
Source: Minister for Industry, Science and Technology; Australian Mining; World Fertilizer Magazine; Mining Weekly