The federal government is set to open public consultations on its green metals policy this Friday, following the release of a discussion paper. The paper highlights the potential for regions like the Hunter to benefit from industries projected to be worth up to $122 billion annually by 2040.
The consultation paper focuses on clean energy-powered production of iron, steel, alumina, and aluminium. It suggests that Australia’s abundant solar, wind, and mineral resources provide a competitive edge over other countries. According to the paper, high-ambition estimates value the green metals sector at $122 billion a year by 2040, with a low-ambition scenario estimating $88 billion annually.
Industry and Science Minister Ed Husic, in the foreword of the paper, emphasizes the government’s desire to gather informed views, data, and analysis from stakeholders to effectively plan for the decarbonised future of these industries.
Highlighting the Hunter region, Minister Husic noted its strong association with advanced metal production, referencing the Tomago Aluminium smelter as a key employer. “Today’s consultation is about engaging workers, managers, and the Hunter community on the potential for green metals to create secure, well-paid jobs for the local economy,” he stated.
The paper also outlines the challenges to green metals production, such as the substantial amount of “firmed renewable” energy capacity needed to decarbonize the aluminium industry. The government aims to address these barriers through informed public consultation, aiming to shape a sustainable and economically beneficial green metals industry. 
