Boddington bauxite mine life to be extended: South32 nears approval milestones

The globally diversified mining and metals company headquartered in Perth, Western Australia, South32, anticipates securing state approval for its Worsley Alumina's bauxite mine life extension project from Western Australia later this month, with federal approval expected in early 2025.

This resulted from a successful appeal of an earlier decision by the Western Australian Environmental Protection Authority (EPA). While the EPA had recommended the project for approval, it imposed conditions that South32 deemed excessively stringent for managing environmental risks, arguing they would pose substantial operational challenges.

South32 owns 86 per cent of Worsley Alumina, with 10 per cent held by Japan Alumina Associates (Australia) Pty Ltd and the remaining 4 per cent held by Sojitz Alumina Pty Ltd. Bauxite is mined near the town of Boddington, 130 kilometres south-east of Perth. The development project focuses on extending the operational lifespan of the Boddington bauxite mine.

South32 reported, "On 12 December 2024, the Western Australian Minister for Environment determined the appeal outcome for the project. We are pleased to advise that the Minister has determined, after considering available information, that the EPA’s assessment and overall conclusion that the project may be implemented, subject to conditions, is reasonable."

"Further, the Minister has agreed with the appeals committee’s recommendations to amend specific conditions based on the arguments presented during the appeals process, including by Worsley Alumina."

"A detailed assessment of other conditions referred to in the Minister’s determination is under way."

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