A $700 million metal processing development has officially launched, creating hundreds of jobs.
The first stage of Tianqi Lithium’s Kwinana Lithium Hydroxide Plant Project recently commenced operation at the Kwinana Industrial Area, 43 km south of Perth.
High local content
The project, which is touted to be the first of its kind and largest in the world, involved building a plant capable of producing 48,000 tonnes of battery-grade lithium hydroxide each year at an anticipated export market price of $800 million per year.
China-headquartered Tianqi claims the construction phase employed a total of 900 people from which more than 80 per cent were sourced from the local area. The operational phase will employ 175 permanent staff and none of the jobs are advertised yet.
Related articles
Scott Morrison vows to end all state bans on gas exploration
$1B mine recognised for major contribution to society
Outback town strikes gold with new mine
Palmer demands premier’s resignation over ‘disturbing relationship’ with Chinese mining company.
Local economy boosted
“I welcome Tianqi Lithium’s significant investment and confidence in our state to grow its lithium hydroxide plant, create jobs and provide a boost to the local economy,” Western Australian Premier Mark McGowan said in a public statement.
State Deputy Premier Roger Cook echoed this view.
“Having a first of its kind lithium hydroxide plant right here in Kwinana demonstrates WA’s capacity in downstream processing, creating jobs content and using local content,” he said. “I congratulate Tianqi for its vision, hard work and investment in this state.”
Add Comment