The Australian government has granted Major Project Status to the Donald Rare Earth and Mineral Sands Project (Donald Project) through the Major Projects Facilitation Agency (MPFA), recognising its national significance and contribution to economic growth, employment, and regional development.
Located in Victoria’s Murray Basin near Minyip and Donald, the project is set to become a world-class supplier of zirconium, titanium, and rare earth elements, including neodymium and praseodymium — materials essential to clean energy, defence, and advanced manufacturing technologies.
With a total mineral resource of 1.81 billion tonnes and a planned mine life exceeding 58 years across two phases, the Donald Project represents one of Australia’s most significant critical minerals developments.
Tiger Brown, Astron Limited Managing Director, said: “We are delighted the Australian government has recognised the national significance of the Donald Project through this Major Project Status designation.
“This support will streamline our engagement with federal agencies and accelerate our pathway to development.
Brown said the Donald Project is expected to drive new employment and provide lasting economic benefits for Victoria’s Wimmera region, while bolstering Australia’s sovereign capability in critical minerals and advanced technology supply chains.
The project is being developed by Donald Project Pty Ltd, trading as Donald Mineral Sands (DMS) — a joint venture between ASX-listed Astron Limited and US-based critical minerals producer Energy Fuels.
DMS has committed to responsible land use, progressive rehabilitation, and delivering long-term economic contributions for regional Victoria.
Major Project Status is granted by the federal government to developments exceeding $50 million in value that meet rigorous criteria, including contributing to national strategic priorities, driving economic growth, industry development, and employment, or delivering clear regional economic benefits.
