Australia’s first commercial graphite micronising facility is a step closer to reality after International Graphite Ltd (ASX:IG6) completed the acquisition of three land lots in the Collie Light Industrial Area.
The purchase from DevelopmentWA, the State Government’s central development agency, covers a 6,000-square-metre parcel that sits directly opposite International Graphite’s existing research and development facility, which houses the country’s first pilot graphite micronising plant.
Design work for the new facility is underway, with engineers finalising detailed plans ahead of the delivery of major plant and equipment already on order. Western Power has approved the essential power supply, and a development application is in its final stages with the Shire of Collie. Once approved, construction on the new site is expected to begin.
International Graphte was one of the first businesses to move into the new industrial precinct, as the WA government looks to attract new industry and support economic diversification and growth in the region.
“The Collie Micronising Facility is coming online at a pivotal moment for global graphite supply,” managing director and CEO Andrew Worland said.
“Interest from manufacturers has been strong, with many seeking reliable alternatives to tenuous overseas supply. Several companies are now assessing our products,” Mr Worland said.
Strong government support
Over the past three years, the Western Australian Government has contributed a $12.5 million grants package to support the development of the company’s Collie and Springdale projects.
“The State Government has taken a very strategic position and has played a key role in the progress we have made to date. Premium land in WA’s south-west is becoming scarce. In developing this site we expect to generate value well above the capital invested,” Worland said.
Collie is designated as a WA “Super Town”, earmarked by the State Government for long-term growth and industrial expansion. Recent additions to the area include a pilot magnesium production facility, an advanced water-filtration media plant, and proposed plans for Australia’s newest low-emissions steel mill.