Mining giant BHP has greenlit a AU$1.35 billion investment to develop the Ministers North iron ore project in Western Australia’s Pilbara, securing the next phase of production for its export hub.
The project will target a high-grade Brockman ore deposit located southeast of BHP’s established Yandi mine. By leveraging Yandi’s existing processing and transport infrastructure, the new satellite development is expected to deliver 20 million tonnes per annum (Mtpa) once fully ramped up.
This output will play a critical role in sustaining BHP’s medium-term Western Australia iron ore production target of 305 Mtpa.
Key works for the development include constructing a 13-kilometre haul road and land bridge to link the two sites, upgrading existing facilities, and installing new primary and secondary crushers at Yandi to support the future feed.
BHP Western Australia Iron Ore Asset President Tim Day praised the investment, noting that Yandi has been a cornerstone of the company’s regional operations for more than three decades.
“Our investment in Ministers North helps us build on that legacy,” Day said.
“We’re making the most of the infrastructure, skills and experience we already have to bring a new orebody into production and keep our high-quality Pilbara iron ore flowing.
“This is about maintaining continuity as Yandi matures naturally and backing the future of the Pilbara and our iron ore business.”
The project is structured as a joint venture, with BHP holding an 85 per cent operating stake.
Japanese trading giants Itochu Corporation and Mitsui & Co hold the remaining interest, with 8 per cent and 7 per cent shares respectively.
Site works are scheduled to commence this month, with first ore targeted for the 2029 financial year.
The decision underscores BHP’s ongoing commitment to the Pilbara, ensuring a seamless operational transition as older deposits near the end of their mine life.
