The NSW Government has announced it will invest $4 million in research grants to develop critical minerals processing technologies and strengthen the state’s position in the global critical minerals supply chain.
The NSW Critical Minerals Processing and Advanced Materials Innovation Program will provide grants of up to $100,000 to research organisations, including universities, to undertake Phase 1 proof-of-concept projects that can improve mineral recovery, develop processing methods for advanced materials and recover critical minerals from mine tailings, waste rock and residues.
Projects could also investigate the production of high-value advanced materials to support downstream industries in NSW.
“Developing critical minerals processing and advanced manufacturing capability is essential to power our future, foster high value-add industries and build secure domestic supply chains,” NSW Minister for Natural Resources Courtney Houssos said.
“NSW has an abundance of critical minerals, and our Critical Minerals and High-Tech Metals Strategy is a blueprint to establish the state as a global leader in the clean energy supply chain. We want to see NSW is moving beyond just extracting raw materials to develop more in processing capability and advanced manufacturing technologies.”
The program aims to advance the development and commercialisation of critical minerals and high-tech metals across the state while creating a pipeline of locally developed technologies ready for up-scaling, investment and market adoption.
Successful Phase 1 applicants will have the opportunity to apply for a second round of funding for demonstration and pre-commercial validation activities, with Phase 2 scheduled to commence in late 2027.
Phase 2 projects will be required to partner with industry bodies and secure cash and in-kind contributions, with the aim of strengthening industry collaboration and supporting commercial adoption.
Applications for Phase 1 funding are now open and close at 3pm on September 18, 2026.
