What’s Happening?
Construction has officially begun on the Queensland Resources Common User Facility (QRCUF) in Cleveland Bay Industrial Park, Townsville. This Australian-first facility will allow mining companies to test mineral processing techniques and fast-track samples to market. Queensland-based engineering company Sedgman Pty Ltd has been appointed managing contractor for the project, with detailed design and construction delivery now underway.
Initially focused on vanadium, the facility will expand to support other critical minerals, including cobalt and rare earth elements. It is expected to be operational by late 2026.
Why It Matters
The QRCUF positions Queensland as a global leader in critical minerals processing, supporting the growth of key industries like defence, renewables, and advanced manufacturing. The project will significantly cut commercialisation timelines for mining companies and attract new investment.
Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie said, “The Crisafulli Government recognises the important role this project will play in developing Queensland’s critical minerals sector.”
Minister for Natural Resources and Mines Dale Last added, “We’ll see advances in manufacturing, defence and research because of it.”
Local Impact
The facility will generate more than 40 new jobs in Townsville and revitalise regional supply chains. “Labor’s mismanagement stalled the creation of more than 40 local jobs,” said Mr Bleijie. The strategic location in Townsville taps into the $500 billion worth of critical minerals estimated in North Queensland.
“The industry will grow, especially in the North,” Mr Last said. “Commercial mining projects will get off the ground quicker in Queensland.”
By the Numbers
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$500 billion – estimated value of North Queensland’s critical mineral reserves.
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40+ local jobs – expected during construction and operations.
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Late 2026 – anticipated opening date for the QRCUF.
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1st in Australia – QRCUF is the nation’s first shared facility for mineral processing.
Zoom In
Association of Mining and Exploration Companies (AMEC) CEO Warren Pearce welcomed the project’s revival, stating:
“Today signals the Government’s intentions to capitalise on the opportunity Queensland has in the critical mineral space. It significantly improves opportunities for companies to secure investment funding and build value-adding projects in Queensland.”
Zoom Out
The QRCUF supports Queensland’s broader ambition to lead in clean energy, advanced materials and national defence supply chains. By streamlining approvals and boosting infrastructure, the Crisafulli Government aims to attract long-term investment and solidify Queensland’s resources dominance.
What to Look For Next?
Watch for project milestones as Sedgman advances the design and construction phases. The focus will remain on vanadium initially, but future announcements may confirm expanded capacity for cobalt and rare earths. The facility’s progress will directly impact regional job creation, investment confidence, and downstream innovation opportunities.
