A new report by CSIRO, Australia’s national science agency, emphasises the crucial role of research, development, and demonstration (RD&D) investment and international collaboration in positioning Australia as a leader in the global energy transition.

The report offers a comprehensive assessment of the innovation needed in critical minerals refining to build a sovereign mid-stream processing industry in Australia, the agency said in a news release.

The demand for energy transition minerals has surged to USD 320 billion over the past five years, driven by the rapid growth of electric vehicles (EVs) and the expanding deployment of solar and wind energy technologies.

The CSIRO report provides detailed insights into the current capabilities and opportunities for RD&D and international cooperation across key minerals including lithium, cobalt, silicon, rare earth elements, and graphite.

By analysing processing technology options for critical materials—such as lithium-ion batteries for electric vehicles, rare earth magnets for EVs and wind turbines, and solar PVs—the report aims to guide investment and policy decisions.

Max Temminghoff, Minerals Lead at CSIRO Futures, highlighted that the report supports Australia’s transition from mining and shipping to higher value processing and manufacturing.

“This report presents an optimistic outlook, providing insights into current RD&D capabilities and a pathway forward,” Temminghoff stated.

“Australia has a rich endowment of critical minerals and world-leading capabilities in several mid-stream activities.

“To become competitive in mid-stream processing, promoting innovation, coordinating efforts across industry, research and government and international collaboration are essential,” Temminghoff remarked.

Dr Rob Hough, CSIRO’s Mineral Resources Director, noted the report’s timeliness.

“This report showcases Australia’s technical strengths and homegrown capabilities, presenting opportunities for significant innovation and international partnerships,” Dr Hough said.

Lucy O’Connor, manager of the Australian Critical Minerals Research and Development Hub, emphasised the pivotal role of R&D in realising Australia’s potential in critical mineral processing.

“We need to ensure that research addresses industry challenges and can be developed into commercially viable technologies,” O’Connor remarked.

She remarked, “This report provides essential information for industry, international partners, and investors to identify opportunities and address technical bottlenecks in developing integrated supply chains for critical minerals.”

Funded by the Critical Minerals Office in the Department of Industry, Science and Resources, the report will also inform the Australian Critical Minerals Research and Development Hub, a $50.5 million initiative that unites Australia’s leading science agencies—ANSTO, CSIRO, and Geoscience Australia.

For further details, download the full report.