Rio Tinto will invest $US1.9 billion in Queensland’s Kangwinan bauxite project, targeting first production in 2029 and 1300 construction jobs.
The Western Cape York project will add 20 million tonnes of annual bauxite production capacity, with first output targeted for 2029 and full production expected by 2032.
Kangwinan will replace production from the ageing Andoom mine, while lifting Weipa’s overall annual capacity from approximately 38 million tonnes to 44 million tonnes. The development will also help offset the planned 2029 closure of Rio Tinto’s Gove mine in the Northern Territory.
Rio Tinto aluminium and lithium chief executive Jérôme Pécresse said the investment reinforced the company’s commitment to Australian bauxite production.
“Kangwinan is a strong vote of confidence in Weipa, in the quality of its bauxite, the capability of its workforce, and the future of the communities and businesses closely connected to our operations,” Pécresse said.
“The project represents the most significant new mining investment in Queensland in recent years and is a sign of Rio Tinto’s long-term commitment to its bauxite business, the State and our integrated mine-to-metal aluminium value chain.”
Located 15km southeast of the existing Amrun mine, Kangwinan will connect to expanded stockyard facilities and the Amrun wharf through a new 15km conveyor.
The wharf will also be upgraded to accommodate larger capesize vessels, with Rio Tinto targeting improved shipping efficiency and lower freight costs.
Early works began in 2025, with construction expected to accelerate in 2027 and support more than 1300 jobs. The project will also help sustain Rio Tinto’s existing Western Cape workforce of approximately 1500 people.
The investment follows Rio Tinto’s agreement to acquire the neighbouring Aurukun bauxite project from Glencore and Mitsubishi, subject to government approvals.
Together, Amrun, Kangwinan and the proposed Aurukun development are expected to support Weipa’s operations well beyond the middle of the century.
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