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Overview

West Balranald is a rutile-rich deposit in the Riverina district of south western New South Wales. Owing to its relative depth (approximately 60 metres below surface), Iluka has over several years assessed the potential to develop West Balranald via a novel, remotely operated, underground mining (UGM) technology. This technology enables access to ore bodies previously thought uneconomic, with marked reductions in both environmental disturbance and carbon intensity relative to traditional extraction techniques.

The definitive feasibility study for Balranald was completed in late 2022. This confirmed the technical and commercial viability of Iluka’s UGM technology and Iluka’s Board approved the final investment decision for Balranald in February 2023.

Representing a capital investment of $480 million, Balranald will deliver approximately 250 jobs during construction and approximately 270 jobs during operation, including contractors.

This development enhances Iluka’s portfolio offering of high grade, high quality critical minerals products produced in Australia. This includes rutile, zircon, synthetic rutile and rare earths.

Further information can be found on our Engagement Hub.