20m tonnes more: Rio Tinto launches $2.6bn Kangwinan project

Rio Tinto has launched its USD 2.6 billion Kangwinan bauxite project in Queensland, marking a major investment in the future of its Weipa operations. The project is expected to add 20 million tonnes of annual bauxite production capacity, with first output targeted for 2029 and full production anticipated by 2032.

A groundbreaking ceremony in the Weipa region marked the start of the development, which Rio Tinto considers an important step in maintaining its long-term presence in Western Cape York.

Armando Torres, managing director of Rio Tinto Pacific Operations, said the investment demonstrated the company's commitment to the region and its workforce. "For more than 60 years, we've operated in Western Cape York, building a world-class bauxite business and strong, enduring relationships with Traditional Owners and local communities," Torres said.

He added that Kangwinan, alongside the proposed acquisition of Aurukun, reflected the company's commitment to Weipa and would help sustain local employment while creating opportunities for regional businesses.

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Kangwinan to replace ageing bauxite operations

The new project is expected to take over production as Rio Tinto's Andoom mine near Weipa approaches the end of its operational life later this decade. It will also help compensate for the planned end of production at the Gove mine in the Northern Territory in 2029.

Rio Tinto expects the development to increase the annual production capacity of its Weipa operations to approximately 44 million tonnes, compared with current output of around 38 million tonnes.

The investment is also expected to support more than 1,300 construction jobs and help secure the future of Rio Tinto's approximately 1,500-strong residential workforce in Western Cape York.

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Queensland welcomes major mining investment

Acting Queensland Natural Resources and Mines Minister Tony Perrett welcomed the project, highlighting Rio Tinto's established infrastructure, regional workforce and relationships with local communities. "Queensland is open for business, and I would like to congratulate Rio Tinto on their USD 2.6 billion investment – one of the most significant in recent Queensland mining history," Perrett said.

The Kangwinan development forms part of Rio Tinto's efforts to maintain bauxite production in the Weipa region as existing mining operations approach the end of their productive lives. With initial output expected in 2029 and full production targeted for 2032, the project is set to play an important role in the company's future bauxite supply.

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