Realising the carbonatite-hosted Nb-REE Potential of the West Arunta, Western Australia

The Challenge 

Despite the acknowledged potential of the Gascoyne and West Arunta regions of Western Australia as emerging Niobium-rich rare earth element districts, the character and mineralisation history of the carbonatite mineral systems that typically host these resources are poorly understood. This knowledge deficit hinders both the discovery of new resources, and planning for the sustainable development of known mineral systems across these regions.

Proposed Solution 

This project will expand understanding of the emplacement of carbonatite magma complexes and associated development and/or remobilisation of Nb-REE mineral systems. New knowledge to be delivered will include understanding the expression of mineralised carbonatite systems through intensely weathered cover rocks across the Gascoyne and West Arunta regions. These learnings will provide both enhanced guidance on exploration targeting and insights on the metallurgical character of Nb-REE mineralisation to support improved mineral processing and recovery protocols.

Proposed Benefits to WA 

This work will help position WA as a leading jurisdiction for the discovery and sustainable extraction of Nb and REE resources. Direct benefits will include greater investment in exploration and the potential development of resources in the Gascoyne and West Arunta regions, together with the training of and upskilling of graduates prepared to contribute to this increasingly important commodity group.

Financial Assistance DOI

DOI: 10.71342/639241197611