Australian Government's Critical Minerals Development Program: applications close 20 February 2023

1 minute read 01.02.2023 Tim Lynch, Simon Scott

Grant money can be spent on project activities that are undertaken post-exploration and before final investment decision; have at least $2 million in eligible expenditure; and are substantially undertaken in Australia.

Key takeouts

Grants of between $1 million and $30 million are available for projects producing or planning to produce critical minerals in the early to mid-stages of development.

The grant is up to 50% of the eligible project expenditure.

The Government will consider projects with a length of at least 6 months, and that are due to be completed by 31 March 2025.

Applicants won't be eligible if they have already received grant money from the Commonwealth Government for the project. There are other eligibility requirements (including needing to have an ABN).

Grant applications will be assessed by the Department of Industry, Science and Resources on criteria of the project's objectives, capacity to deliver and the impact of funding.

Eligible project activities include business cases and feasibility studies, pilot projects, commercialisation of technology and IP that benefits the sector, integrating technology that supports net-zero emissions by 2050, and development of downstream manufacturing capability.