A new critical minerals processing facility has opened in Townsville.
It will help mining companies test production techniques and move projects towards commercial development.
The Queensland Resources Common User Facility will give companies access to specialised equipment to test and validate mineral processing methods at scale, without having to invest in their own demonstration facilities.
The State Government said the Australian-first purpose-built facility would help reduce technical risks, attract investment and encourage more minerals to be processed in Queensland rather than exported as raw materials.
It forms part of a $146.1 million investment in critical minerals announced in the Queensland Government’s 2026-27 Budget.
Vanadium processing the initial focus
The facility will initially focus on vanadium processing, with capacity to expand to other critical minerals, including cobalt and rare earth elements.
Foundation customer Vecco Group will use the facility to validate its process for converting vanadium-bearing ore into a high-purity product used in vanadium flow batteries.
These batteries are used for large-scale energy storage, including storing electricity generated from renewable energy sources.
Minister for Natural Resources and Mines Dale Last said the facility would help companies demonstrate the commercial potential of Queensland’s mineral resources.
“Queensland has enormous critical minerals potential, but having the resource in the ground is only the beginning,” he said.
“Projects need confidence that a process will work at scale, the capability to test and refine, and investment to take a project from concept to commercial reality.”
MITEZ Chief Executive Officer Maria James said the facility would strengthen the region’s processing capability and encourage further investment.
“North West Queensland has significant mineral resources and established industry expertise, and this facility will help build on those strengths by supporting new processing opportunities and attracting investment,” Ms James said.
“Expanding our processing capability will strengthen regional supply chains, support local businesses and create long-term jobs across the corridor.”
