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Highlights
Diatreme Resources secures Major Project Status for Northern Silica development
Bonaparte CCS becomes first offshore carbon storage project with official recognition
Cobalt Blue’s Broken Hill Project maintains Major Project Status for battery-grade cobalt
Diatreme Resources Ltd (ASX:DRX) and Cobalt Blue Holdings Ltd (ASX:COB), both listed on the ASX 300, have received significant federal recognition as their projects were granted or renewed under Australia’s Major Project Status framework. This designation supports large-scale initiatives vital to the nation’s strategic and economic progress.
The announcement also includes new status for the Bonaparte Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) Project and a continued endorsement for the Australia-Asia Power Link, underscoring the federal government’s broader push for industrial decarbonisation and future-facing infrastructure.
Diatreme’s Silica Sand Venture Secures Strategic Status
Diatreme’s Northern Silica Project in Far North Queensland was recognised for its capacity to supply high-purity silica sand for domestic and international use in solar panel manufacturing, electronics, and silicon wafers. The project is strategically located near the Port of Cape Flattery, offering export access to Asian markets.
The company earlier updated its resource estimates for the site, which now supports a long-term mining operation. The development is expected to contribute to local employment during both construction and ongoing production phases, aligned with national goals to enhance downstream processing within Australia.
Bonaparte CCS Recognised for Decarbonisation Role
The Bonaparte CCS Project, located offshore northwest of Darwin, has become the first offshore carbon storage project in the country to receive Major Project Status. The joint venture is operated by Inpex (TYO:1605) and includes TotalEnergies CCS Australia and Woodside Energy Ltd (ASX:WDS). The consortium aims to enable emissions reductions in sectors where decarbonisation is technically challenging, including metal and chemical processing.
The project has identified a suitable geological formation for secure carbon storage, located within the Bonaparte Basin. Data analysis is underway to support further regulatory milestones, including submission of a greenhouse gas injection licence. Inpex is also maintaining regular engagement with both local communities and government bodies.
Cobalt Blue Maintains Status for Battery Material Project
The Broken Hill Cobalt Project (BHCP), developed by Cobalt Blue, continues to hold Major Project Status. This initiative spans a mining operation in New South Wales and a refining facility in Western Australia, aiming to produce battery-grade cobalt and elemental sulphur. The refined output is aligned with global demand for electric vehicle battery components.
The project is structured to support Australia’s goal of building a domestic critical minerals refining sector. It is one of the first of its kind to focus on large-scale cobalt chemical production within Australia, with capacity forecasts based on multi-regional battery supply chain needs.
SunCable Project Retains Endorsement for Renewable Ambitions
The Australia-Asia Power Link (SunCable) remains a key strategic project with its status renewed under the federal initiative. Designed to generate large volumes of solar energy in the Northern Territory, the project aims to contribute clean electricity for both domestic and Southeast Asian markets.
