Western Australia will require that green steel produced in-state be used in major government infrastructure projects, as part of a strategy to grow a local green iron industry.

The WA approach combines resource integration, multiple production pathways, favorable policy support, and proximity to Asian markets to create a diversified, export-focused, cost-efficient green steel strategy.

The policy uses an 'if not, why not' procurement framework to spur decarbonisation and generate local jobs in the green metal sector.

Looking ahead, the plan envisions staged expansion from initial commissioning in the 2025–2027 window to 2030–2035 capacity growth, with ongoing integration of renewable energy and expanded export opportunities.

Key challenges include aligning infrastructure for renewables and hydrogen, developing demand and long-term offtake, and scaling the workforce with training and expertise in hydrogen operations.

Analysis reflects information current to November 2025, with references to Discovery Alert and official sources, noting that programme details may evolve.

Projections acknowledge uncertainties and recommend verifying carbon and lifecycle claims through certified studies before procurement decisions.

Economic and industry impacts point to job growth, local supply-chain benefits, and stronger export competitiveness driven by first-mover advantages amid carbon pricing regimes.

A broader national context notes a potential multi-hundred-billion-dollar annual green iron market by mid-century and associated emissions reductions, though progress faces stalled green hydrogen projects in some states.

Electric arc furnace technology powered by renewables drives core production, with the Collie facility as a flagship project backed by government grants and targeting commercial operation by 2027.

Workforce development is central, with targets for apprenticeships and training across manufacturing, fabrication, logistics, and R&D to support industrial diversification.

FAQs outline the differences from conventional steel, with expected commercial availability around 2027, a pricing path from premium to cost-competitive over several years, and the role of recycled feedstock and government procurement.