Joint media release: Supporting Australian critical minerals as the world embraces net zero

The Hon Chris Bowen MP, Minister for Climate Change and Energy

The Hon Madeleine King, Minister for Resources

The Albanese Government is investing in a Future Made in Australia, with a US$75 million deal to boost critical mineral supplies and support the renewable energy transformation.

The Clean Energy Finance Corporation (CEFC) will work with global alternative investment manager Resource Capital Funds (RCF) to drive decarbonisation within the Australian critical mineral mining industry – particularly lithium and nickel for use in batteries and copper that underpins electrification.

RCF, which has an office in Perth, Western Australia, is an experienced investor with an $2 billion portfolio of mining assets, with companies to build strong, successful, innovative, and sustainable businesses.

Global efforts to reduce emissions have already started transforming traditional industries, creating new opportunities to broaden Australia’s industrial base and strengthen our sovereign capability.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen:

“We know Australia has the potential to be a renewable energy superpower, and with our enormous mineral wealth, we can help the world make the switch to net zero too.

“Our Future Made in Australia plan ensures we use our resources base to power the world while bringing jobs and wealth back home, especially in regional communities.”

Quote attributable to Minister for Resources Madeleine King:

“The world is building solar, wind and other forms of renewable energy at a cracking pace, and Australian minerals should be at the forefront of this generational economic opportunity.”

The CEFC is a specialist investor in Australia’s transition to net zero. With access to more than $30 billion from the Australian Government, the CEFC works with co-investors, industry and government to drive economy-wide investment in decarbonisation.