The Cook Labor Government has announced a significant investment of $6.5 million to advance a job-creating graphite plant in Collie, putting the town front-and-centre in Australia’s growing battery industry. This funding is part of the government’s commitment to diversifying Collie’s economy and transitioning away from coal.
Graphite is a crucial material for producing anode materials used in lithium-ion batteries for electric vehicles and energy storage facilities. International Graphite, a Western Australia-based company, began production at its pilot graphite micronising plant in Collie earlier this year with a $2 million grant from the WA Labor Government. Now, with an additional $4.5 million injection, the company is set to ramp up to full commercial production, creating 20 full-time permanent jobs for Collie.
The commercial-scale micronising facility will have a production capacity of up to 4000 tonnes per annum, with plans to build the operations within the next 18 to 24 months. Furthermore, the government will provide $2 million for a feasibility study into establishing a battery anode material facility in Collie, further solidifying the town’s role in the battery industry.
Premier Roger Cook emphasized the importance of Collie’s position in WA’s clean energy future, stating that the project will create quality, long-term industrial jobs and support the town’s transition away from coal. Regional Development Minister Don Punch echoed these sentiments, highlighting the positive economic impact and job creation opportunities for Collie workers.
Collie-Preston MLA Jodie Hanns also expressed excitement for the project, noting the government’s efforts to attract new industries to diversify the economy and provide job opportunities for local workers. With the support from both the state and federal government, Collie is on track to becoming a key player in the battery materials production industry, securing its economic future for generations to come.
