The Australian government has announced a significant investment of $750 million to support the transition to green metals production.
This funding, part of the $1.7 billion Future Made in Australia Innovation Fund, aims to develop new low-emissions technologies for metal manufacturers.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated that the initiative would “supercharge cutting-edge innovation and boost the development of new low emissions technologies.”
The fund will support the development of advanced technologies and finance pilot and demonstration projects to lower emissions, improve productivity, and revitalise plants and equipment in the metals industry.
The Australian Hydrogen Council (AHC) and the Australian Aluminium Council have welcomed this announcement.
Dr Fiona Simon, CEO of AHC, emphasised the critical role of funding certainty in unlocking private investment and supporting the decarbonisation of existing Australian industries.
Marghanita Johnson, CEO of the Australian Aluminium Council, highlighted Australia’s unique position to lead global decarbonisation efforts in alumina production.
She noted that “Australia’s alumina already has one of the world’s lowest emissions intensities—around half the global industry average.”
This investment is part of a broader $5 billion package aimed at supercharging the Australian metals industry.
It follows earlier allocations, including $500 million for clean energy technology manufacturing and $250 million for low-carbon liquid fuels.
The funding will be administered independently through the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA).
It is expected to unlock commercial-scale production of green metals using Australian ores and renewable resources, potentially opening doors to more trade opportunities, jobs, and value-adding while lowering emissions.
This initiative aligns with Australia’s commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 43 per cent below 2005 levels by 2030.
It also addresses the urgent need for sustainably produced green metals for the global energy transition.
As the world’s largest iron ore producer and a significant player in the alumina and aluminium sectors, Australia is positioning itself to maintain its competitive edge while embracing sustainability in the rapidly evolving global metals market.
