The Crisafulli Government has announced a $20 million investment in North West Queensland’s Walford Creek Project, supporting up to 200 construction jobs and 60 ongoing roles while unlocking one of Queensland’s largest untapped critical mineral deposits.
- $20 million investment in Aeon Metals’ Walford Creek Project, around 350km north-west of Mt Isa.
- Up to 200 construction jobs and 60 ongoing roles expected to be supported in North West Queensland.
- The project contains an estimated 75 million tonnes of mineral resources, including copper, cobalt, zinc, lead, silver and nickel.
- The investment is one of the first under the strengthened $250 million Queensland Critical Minerals Fund, which received an additional $100 million in this year’s Budget.
Treasurer, Minister for Energy and Minister for Home Ownership David Janetzki
“The North West Minerals Province is one of the richest mineral producing regions in the world, potentially holding $700 billion in critical minerals.
“Further unlocking critical minerals opportunities will help deliver even more benefit to Queensland’s economy.
“The Crisafulli Government is determined to ensure Queenslanders reap the benefits of our natural resources.”
Minister for Finance, Trade, Employment and Training Ros Bates
“Critical minerals projects have the potential to transform Queensland and create the jobs and long-term economic growth in our regions.”
Queensland Minister for Regional and Rural Development Dale Last
“Queensland has 51 of the world’s critical minerals resources in our backyard and projects like Walford Creek show the scale of the opportunity.
“The North West Minerals Province is one of Australia’s great resource regions, and this investment is about turning more of its mineral potential into producing projects.
“Walford Creek has the potential to supply the copper and cobalt needed for advanced manufacturing, defence, and technology which is increasingly important for nation’s looking to secure their global supply chains.
“The Crisafulli Government is backing our resources sector to attract investment, get projects moving and create long-term jobs and economic opportunities for regional Queensland.”
Aeon Metals Executive Chair Paul Harris
“This funding will support key development activities including feasibility studies and resource drilling, as we progress the project towards a final investment decision.
“Walford Creek hosts one of Queensland’s largest undeveloped copper-sulphide systems and we look forward to unlocking its potential and delivering long-term value for Queensland through future investment, jobs and economic activity.”
Townsville Enterprise CEO Claudia Brumme-Smith
“We acknowledge and welcome the Crisafulli Government’s support for regional jobs and the critical minerals sector in North Queensland.
“This investment is a strong vote of confidence in the region’s potential to drive jobs, attract investment and support long-term economic growth.
“North Queensland has a critical role to play in Queensland’s future critical minerals industry, and we welcome investment that helps turn our region
