Western Australia’s ban on uranium mining will mean the State misses out on a significant windfall from a deal to export billions of dollars’ worth of Australian uranium to India.
The agreement between Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will allow uranium exports to India for peaceful purposes, under stringent guidelines.
Currently, only South Australia and the Northern Territory allow uranium mining, despite Western Australia having capacity to produce an estimated 8,000 tonnes for export each year.
CCIWA Chief Executive, Will Golsby, said the WA Government should seriously consider overturning its ban on uranium mining.
“As countries all over the world look to nuclear energy to decarbonise their economies, there is a real opportunity for WA to become a key supplier of uranium,” he said.
“Other states have been able to capitalise on this demand, but WA has missed out despite having some of the largest uranium deposits in the country.
“This deal with India is great news for South Australia and the Northern Territory, but sadly the benefit will bypass WA unless there’s change.”
A CCIWA report in 2024 found a uranium mining and export industry in WA would create up to 9,000 jobs, with potential to export $1 billion worth of yellowcake a year.
Mr Golsby said WA was well positioned to become a major global player in uranium exports.
“WA is a mining state with a reputation for safety and world’s best practice. We have a strong regulatory framework, existing infrastructure and all the skills needed to safely mine and export uranium,” Mr Golsby said.
“If other states can do it, there’s no reason why WA can’t.”
