State and federal governments extend lifeline to Nyrstar

The federal, South Australian and Tasmanian governments have announced they will provide a further $105 million to support Nyrstar to progress key feasibility work at the Port Pirie and Hobart critical minerals operations.

This funding will support continued operations at the Port Pirie and Hobart smelters during 2026 while Nyrstar continues detailed work on future investment decisions at both sites. The governments say the package will enable Nyrstar to complete its pre-feasibility study and progress work on a further feasibility study, identifying opportunities to expand and accelerate critical minerals production in Australia.

Nyrstar is delivering on its commitments under the initial government support package, with its first shipment of antimony metal made earlier this year. This is an important step towards building a more independent and sovereign Australian supply of antimony, a critical input for defence, semiconductor, energy and automotive industries.

As part of the extension of government support, Nyrstar will participate in a Joint Review in the coming months, which will provide governments with a clear, shared framework to determine the long-term pathway for these sites.

“Nyrstar Hobart is one of Tasmania’s most significant industrial employers and a cornerstone of our advanced manufacturing and strategic materials processing capability,” said Jeremy Rockliff, Premier of Tasmania. “Nyrstar contributes more than $510 million to the Tasmanian economy each year and plays a critical role in sustaining economic activity across the state.”

“This investment supports the continued operation of these facilities while the next phase of work is completed,” said Tim Ayres, Federal Minister for Industry and Innovation and Minister for Science. “We are backing Australian industry and ensuring we maintain the capability to refine and process the minerals the world needs.”

“The global instability in recent months has only underscored the importance of Australian sovereignty,” said Peter Malinauskas, Premier of South Australia. “The possibility of producing antimony and other critical metals in Port Pirie presents a unique opportunity to deliver what our nation, and indeed the world needs.

“Examining that opportunity thoroughly requires time, and this investment on behalf of three governments ensures that important work can continue apace.”

Image credit: iStock.com/chameleonseye