The WA project has final approval to produce gallium, targeting about 10% of global demand once operational.

A final investment decision has been reached to co-locate a gallium production plant with Alcoa's Wagerup alumina refinery in Western Australia, with backing from Australia, Japan, the United States, and Alcoa.

Construction will begin after site preparations and regulatory approvals, signaling progress toward resilient global critical minerals supply chains.

This marks the second government-supported Final Investment Decision under the US-Australia framework, following Arafura Rare Earths’ ramp-up.

Officials stress the project will reinforce technology, defense capability, and economic security through diversified, secure mineral supply chains.

The plant will span about three hectares with five production trains in a phased rollout, connected to the existing refinery and occupying under 2% of its footprint.

Export Finance Australia is financing the project through the Critical Minerals Facility, reflecting a coordinated public-private effort to secure essential materials.

The announcement underscores Western Australia and Alcoa’s pivotal role in delivering critical materials for the global economy.

Annual gallium production is planned at roughly 100 tonnes, derived from the refinery’s process liquor and extracted via ion exchange technology.

Australian ministers framed the project as strengthening supply chains, jobs, exports, and national security through international collaboration.

Alcoa emphasizes its long-standing innovation culture and responsible governance in the aluminum value chain.

This initiative fits into a broader strategy to bolster critical mineral supply chains, including a strategic reserve and prioritization of gallium, antimony, and rare earths for high-tech, clean-energy, and defense uses.