Lithium plant hailed as WA boost

The impending construction of a $400 million lithium hydroxide processing plant in Kwinana has been heralded as a boost to the local and State economy.

The proposal from Chinese company Tianqi Lithium was endorsed by the City of Kwinana this month and received approval from the Metropolitan South-West Joint Development Assessment Panel last week.

The State Government forecasts that 500 jobs will be created throughout the two-year construction phase, while 115 operational jobs will follow.

City of Kwinana Mayor Carol Adams said the Kwinana Industrial Area was one of the largest contributors to the State economy.

“The addition of the new lithium processing plant will further enhance Kwinana’s standing as an internationally respected industrial powerhouse and will help the nation further develop its credentials as a leading global exporter,” she said.

“When you consider not just the direct jobs created but the hundreds of indirect employment opportunities which will be generated, this news should be celebrated and more development of this kind encouraged by all tiers of government.”

Tianqi Lithium Australia general manager Phil Thick said construction of the facility was expected to begin within two months. “Importantly, the batteries ultimately produced are key components of the new energy world, which helps the environment and our planet,” he said.

“Tianqi’s plant will produce the highest quality lithium hydroxide, which is required in the electric vehicle and high-end energy storage markets.”

State Development Minister Bill Marmion said the plant was very positive news for growing WA’s economy.