Construction begins on WA gallium project

The first sod has been turned in construction of the Alcoa-Sojitz Gallium Recovery Project in Western Australia, which the Australian Government describes as “a major milestone for Australia’s international supply chain security”.

The government says the project, at Alcoa’s Wagerup Alumina Refinery, will help establish Australia as a significant global producer of gallium — a critical mineral essential to advanced manufacturing, defence technologies and semiconductor production.

Minister for Resources and Northern Australia Madeleine King said the project represents an important investment between the governments of Australia, Japan and the United States, with support from the Western Australian Government.

“Today’s groundbreaking marks an important step forward for Australia’s critical minerals industry,” she said. “This is a real example of how Australia, together with trusted partners, is stepping up to lead on critical minerals and rare earths globally.”

“Investments like the Alcoa-Sojitz Gallium Recovery Project are about building Australia’s industrial strength,” said Minister for Science Tim Ayres. “By partnering with trusted allies and investing in capability here at home, we’re creating a more resilient economy and securing Australia’s place in the industries of the future.”

Once fully operational, the Alcoa facility is expected to produce up to 10% of the world’s gallium supply, making a substantial contribution to global demand and strengthening supply security for Australia’s international partners.

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