The Tasmanian Government’s Exploration Drilling Grant Initiative (EDGI) continues to drive mineral discovery in the state, reaching a significant investment milestone with a cumulative spend of $8.2 million since its inception in 2018. The initiative, which supports drilling for critical, strategic, and precious metals, has proven instrumental in uncovering valuable resources across Tasmania’s diverse geological landscape.
Tasmania bolstered by critical minerals[australianmining.com]
In the latest development, seven new exploration projects have been awarded a combined $497,000 through the 11th round of EDGI funding. This round targets prospective sites for tin, copper, gold, antimony, lithium, and other key minerals, with exploration drilling scheduled to span 4000 metres.
Strategic Metals in Focus Across Key Sites
The newly funded projects are spread across mineral-rich regions such as Western Hills, Jukes North, and Carbine Hill. Each project contributes to Tasmania’s growing role in securing Australia’s supply of critical minerals, which are vital for green energy technologies, advanced manufacturing, and national security.
According to Tasmania’s Minister for Business, Industry and Resources, Eric Abetz, the latest grants highlight the government’s commitment to economic development and long-term resource security.
“Round 11 of the EDGI program supports a wide range of projects focused on critical and strategic metals,” Abetz said. “These are the minerals that are essential to the industries of the future, and Tasmania is well-positioned to be a major contributor to this demand.”
Return on Investment Demonstrates Program’s Success
Abetz underscored the economic value of the EDGI initiative, noting that for every dollar invested by the Tasmanian Government, $2.70 has been leveraged from private exploration companies—a strong return on the $3 million in funding provided to date.
Also Read: ASX Healthcare Heavyweights: How Australia’s Top Biotech Stocks Are Performing Today
“These are great examples of the opportunities identified with the support of the program at new and existing sites, demonstrating its value to the state and sector,” he said.
The initiative not only attracts investment but also accelerates the development of high-potential exploration targets that may otherwise remain dormant due to financial constraints.
Past Discoveries Cement Program’s Impact
EDGI’s track record includes notable discoveries that are already reshaping Tasmania’s mineral map. In Round 10, ABx Group made a significant discovery of rare earth elements (REEs) at its Temple Bar prospect—an area previously underexplored. The find includes high concentrations of REEs used in permanent magnets for electric vehicles and wind turbines, industries that are rapidly scaling up worldwide.
Another success story emerged from CopperCorp’s Jukes prospect near Queenstown, where EDGI funding contributed to the discovery of copper and gold mineralisation. These outcomes underline the strategic importance of early-stage funding in unearthing long-term resource potential.
Mining Drives Economic and Employment Growth
Tasmania’s mining industry remains a cornerstone of the state’s economy, generating more than $2.5 billion annually. Over the past year, the sector accounted for more than 64% of the state’s exports and supported around 6,800 jobs, including many in regional communities.
Abetz highlighted the broader significance of exploration funding in sustaining this momentum: “For an industry that is worth over $2.5 billion a year, we have a responsibility to make the most of our mineral resources to help grow our economy to benefit the next generation of Tasmanians.”
He added that ongoing investment in exploration would ensure Tasmania maintains its competitive edge as a mining jurisdiction known for innovation, sustainability, and resource diversity.
Exploration Ecosystem Gains Strength
Tasmania’s supportive regulatory framework, accessible geological data, and proximity to infrastructure further bolster its attractiveness to mineral explorers. With increased federal and state focus on critical minerals supply chains, initiatives like EDGI serve as essential tools in expanding Australia’s role in the global energy transition.
Tasmania welcomes new strategic minerals list[australianmining.com]
As global demand for lithium, rare earths, copper, and other clean energy minerals continues to rise, Tasmania’s mining sector is poised to play an even greater role in meeting supply chain demands while contributing to local employment and economic resilience.
Looking Ahead
With EDGI Round 11 now underway, the Tasmanian Government continues to foster a stable environment for exploration and discovery. Future rounds of funding are expected to open new opportunities for junior and mid-tier explorers, further reinforcing the state’s reputation as a dynamic mineral province.
Through its continued support for exploration, the government not only encourages immediate drilling activity but also lays the groundwork for the mines of tomorrow—projects that could become key contributors to Australia’s resource independence and low-emissions future.
