The Queensland government has officially declared the PhosOne pit-to-production operation in North West Queensland a ‘prescribed project’, fast-tracking approvals for a venture expected to inject $1.4 billion into the economy and create hundreds of jobs.
PhosOne, a joint venture between North West Phosphate Limited (NWP) and Sibanye-Stillwater (SSW), will establish a cost-effective phosphate ore development to capitalise on surging global demand for fertiliser.
The project will mine phosphate ore from NWP’s new $150 million Paradise South mine, located 130km northwest of Mount Isa.
The ore will be transported to Century mine for initial processing, then further refined at the Port of Karumba before export.
The project’s prescribed status streamlines the approval process and is anticipated to generate 240 ongoing jobs and 490 construction roles, supporting the region’s workforce and economy.
Funding of $5.77 million from the Mount Isa Mining Acceleration Program has already expedited development.
Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning, Jarrod Bleijie, emphasised the project’s significance: “The Crisafulli government is committed to delivering new opportunities for the North West, and expanding mining in our regions.”
He added: “Designating this venture as a prescribed project highlights its significance for the region and starts the comprehensive approval process.”
Assistant Minister for Primary Industry Development, Water and Western Queensland, Sean Dillion, highlighted the dual benefits for Queensland’s resources and agricultural sectors, noting the project’s potential to boost domestically manufactured fertiliser and mining development.
Queensland Coordinator-General Gerard Coggan said supporting critical mineral expansion was central to the state’s economic future, while North West Phosphate Managing Director John Cotter welcomed the government’s backing.
“This declaration supports the project’s continued development and planning, and recognises the long-term strategic value a project like PhosOne could offer in terms of securing phosphate supply, supporting regional employment, and contributing to domestic fertiliser production,” Cotter said.
With global demand for phosphate on the rise, PhosOne’s advancement signals a significant step forward for Queensland’s mining and agricultural industries.