VHM’s Goschen rare earths and mineral sands project has received a three-year extension to its major project status, strengthening its strategic importance to Australia’s critical minerals sector.
The extension, granted by Federal Industry Minister Ed Husic, underscores the project’s potential to contribute to the country’s economic growth, resource security, and transition to renewable energy.
Major project status is a designation reserved for developments deemed nationally significant, providing additional regulatory support and streamlining approvals.
For VHM, this extension offers crucial backing as the company advances through the development and construction phases, ultimately progressing toward production.
It also strengthens the company’s position as it seeks investment and strategic partnerships ahead of a final investment decision.
The extension follows a key regulatory milestone in December 2024 when Victorian Minister for Planning Sonya Kilkenny endorsed the project’s environment effects statement (EES). With state and federal support in place, VHM is well-positioned to push forward with its plans to establish a new rare earths and mineral sands precinct in Victoria’s Loddon-Mallee region.
VHM chief executive officer Ron Douglas highlighted the significance of the extension, describing it as an important enabler for the company’s development plans.
“Development of the Goschen project will initiate a new rare earths and minerals sands precinct in Victoria and help deliver the Australian Government’s Critical Minerals Strategy and the Victorian Government’s Critical Minerals Roadmap,” he said.
As global demand for rare earths and mineral sands grows, driven by the shift to renewable technologies, the Goschen project represents a key opportunity for Australia to strengthen its position in the critical minerals supply chain.
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