Demand for our minerals
The International Energy Agency (IEA) estimates that demand for critical minerals could more than double by 2030. Increasing popularity of battery storage is spurring demand for minerals that are needed for battery materials, such as graphite, copper and nickel. In 2040, mineral demand is projected to be dominated by these minerals.
This surging demand is set to drive rapid growth across Queensland's critical minerals supply chain, from extraction to advanced manufacturing. With a proven history of reliable, secure and ethical mineral extraction, Queensland stands as a cornerstone of Australia's resource sector.
Australia's energy targets
In Australia, our renewable and energy targets will drive local demand for critical minerals and critical mineral products.
The Australian Government has committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 43% by 2030 and both the Australian and Queensland governments have committed to net zero emissions by 2050.
This combination of global and domestic demand will drive significant and accelerated growth in the supply, processing, refining and manufacturing of critical minerals—offering investment opportunities at all stages of the value chain, both within Queensland and exported to our international partners.
Global ties
Australia has bi-lateral collaborations on critical minerals with many countries including the United States, India, Germany, the United Kingdom, South Korea and within the European Union.
Australia was a founding member of the Minerals Security Partnership which bolsters critical mineral supply chains essential to the energy transition, The partnership identifies strategic projects, attracting private sector finance and upholding strong ESG credentials.
Australia is a signatory to 18 free-trade agreements with individual countries or groups of countries.
Over the past 2 decades, Queensland’s economic growth has consistently outpaced the national average, offering investors the opportunity to be part of one of Australia’s best performing economies. With some of the strongest business conditions among states and consistently high levels of business confidence, Queensland is well positioned for sustained growth.
As a secure and competitive supplier of minerals, Queensland’s mining sector was the state’s largest industry in 2023–24 contributing $61.6 billion in nominal gross value added (GVA) terms.
- Last updated
- 26 November 2025
- Last reviewed
- 11 July 2025