Iluka Resources Limited is advancing plans for the construction and operation of a mineral sands mine and concentrator plant near Gingin, Western Australia.
The proposal entails processing approximately 2.8 million tonnes of mineral sands per annum on multiple parcels of land near the intersection of Brand Highway and Dewar Road, approximately 2.5 kilometres northwest of Gingin.
This project highlights Iluka’s continued investment in mineral sands development within the Perth region, focusing on sustainable and responsible mining practices.
The proposed site encompasses several properties designated under Minerals-to-Owner titles, which are distinct from mining tenements regulated by the Department of Industry and Resources.
The mining and processing facilities will be located on parts of Swan Locations 128, 354, 508, 340, 355, 506, 511, and 536 across several lots.
Following the completion of mining operations, Iluka has committed to the full rehabilitation of the site to restore land conditions.
This initiative falls within the mineral sands sector, involving extraction and processing to recover valuable heavy minerals used in a range of industries, including the production of zircon and titanium dioxide.
The proposal was formally referred to the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) under section 38 of the Environmental Protection Act 1986, as it is likely to have significant environmental impacts requiring assessment.
The project’s environmental assessment received considerable attention, culminating in the issuance of Ministerial Statement 666 in November 2004 after a thorough EPA evaluation.
The statement set out conditions and requirements for managing environmental impacts and site rehabilitation.
Notably, the mining activity area was amended by a further 90 hectares to a total of 370 hectares, approved in October 2006, demonstrating ongoing regulatory oversight and adjustment to project scope.
Iluka’s approach to this proposal reflects its long history in the region, with mineral sands exploration in Gingin dating back to the 1970s.
The company owns the majority of lands within the project boundary and has secured landowner agreements for the remaining portions.
Importantly, mining leases are not required for this freehold land because it was alienated from the Crown before 1899; however, all applicable environmental regulations, planning approvals, and licences are strictly observed.
The project timeline indicates that past mining activities commenced around mid-2005, and mining was completed by May 2009, with closure and rehabilitation plans well documented to ensure sustainable land use post-mining.
Rehabilitation efforts aim to prevent long-term environmental harm and restore conditions suitable for future land uses acceptable to regulators, local stakeholders, and post-mining land users.
Iluka’s operations at Gingin are part of its broader strategy to sustainably develop mineral sands while managing environmental responsibilities, promoting economic growth, and contributing to regional development.