The Finocchiaro CLP Government is driving development in Central Australia, with the first shipment of Direct Shipping Ore (DSO) from Avenira Limited’s Wonarah Phosphate Project set to proceed following the grant of a Deemed Environmental Mining Licence, commonly known as a Mining Management Plan.
This approval will enable Avenira to advance development at Wonarah to produce up to 1.3 million tonnes of DSO, and the first shipment is expected later this year.
Phosphate is primarily used in the agriculture and fertiliser industries, but demand is growing as it becomes a key feedstock in electric vehicle battery and energy storage facilities.
The initial phosphate DSO will support agricultural productivity, while the future project phases will create opportunities for high-value downstream processing, manufacturing, and investment.
The CLP Government promised 2025 would be a year of action, certainty and security – and this milestone is a clear example of delivering on that commitment.
Minister for Mining and Energy Gerard Maley said the project would deliver long-term economic benefits for the Barkly region.
“The NT Government is laser-focussed on growing the Territory economy and promoting mining and attracting investment is a top priority,” Mr Maley said.
“We want to see more mining projects Avenira’s, move into production, which is why we are providing a regulatory and investment environment that helps get projects off the ground quickly and successfully.
“This project is expected to create up to 100 direct local jobs in Central Australia, with further indirect employment and infrastructure investments flowing from it.”
Located around 245km east of Tennant Creek, Wonarah Project is one of Australia’s largest undeveloped phosphate resources, with a potential mine life of 30-plus years.
Minister for Lands, Planning and Environment Joshua Burgoyne said the project is a strong example of balanced and responsible development.
“This is a great example of our government working with industry to streamline approvals while maintaining strong environmental protections,” he said.
“Projects like Wonarah are critical for the sustainable growth of our regions, and the approval reflects our commitment to efficient, transparent and responsible environmental regulation.”
Avenira Chairperson and Chief Executive Officer, Stephanie Yuan welcomed the milestone approval.
“We are pleased to receive approval of the Mine Management Plan supporting the Company’s proposed mining activities at Wonarah. This approval is a key step toward unlocking our plans to commence operations by Q4 2025,” she said.
“The DSO operations are an important step in the development of a downstream beneficiation plant and Yellow Phosphorus processing facility in the Northern Territory.
We would like to acknowledge and thank the Northern Territory Government for their support and we look forward to continuing our work together.”
Avenira Limited’s Deemed Environmental Mining Licence includes open pit designs and supporting roads and infrastructure.
Under the Environment Protection Act 2019 and the Environment Protection Regulations 2020, an environmental (mining) licence is required before mining activities can commence.
Source: Northern Territory Government Newsroom
