8 October 2025
The Finocchiaro CLP Government has approved a Mining Licence for Verdant Minerals' Ammaroo Phosphate Project, paving the way for a world-class mining development that will deliver hundreds of long-term jobs, boost regional investment, and strengthen the Territory economy.
Ammaroo's approval follows the granting of two mineral leases in March and represents a critical step towards construction and mining operations at one of the world's largest phosphate resources.
Verdant estimates the value of production over the life of the mine to exceed $15 billion.
Minister for Mining and Energy Gerard Maley said the CLP Government's focus on fast-tracking approvals and driving economic growth is delivering results across the Territory.
"This approval highlights the CLP Government's commitment to supporting major projects that deliver jobs, investment, and long-term economic benefits for Territorians," said Minister Maley.
"Securing the mining licence puts Verdant Minerals' Ammaroo Project firmly on track to reach Final Investment Decision and commence construction as early as mid-2027.
"Verdant Minerals has already invested more than $10 million locally on engineering, environmental and civil works and as the project progresses, Central Australian and Barkly businesses will continue to benefit from job opportunities, unlocking regional growth and rebuilding the Northern Territory economy."
Located 200 kilometres south-east of Tennant Creek, the Ammaroo Phosphate Project is expected to create around 400 jobs during construction and 250 long-term operational roles over its 25-plus year mine life.
Containing more than one billion tonnes of phosphate ore, Ammaroo is strategically significant for both agricultural development and clean energy technologies.
Phosphate is a vital ingredient in fertilisers that supports food production and is also a key feedstock in the Lithium Ferro Phosphate (LFP) battery supply chain.
Headquartered in Darwin, Verdant Minerals has been working closely with the CLP Government to progress Ammaroo and establish the Territory as a reliable supplier of strategic minerals and fertiliser feedstock to global markets.
Verdant Minerals Managing Director Chris Tziolis said the licence approval is a major milestone for the project and reinforces Verdant's commitment to pursuing this globally significant and advanced mining project.
"Mining approval from the NT Government is a major milestone for Ammaroo and clears the way for Verdant Minerals to advance the process of project financing to enable the construction of the first stage of the project, delivering local jobs, contracting opportunities, and long-term economic benefits across the NT," Mr Tziolis said.
"Ammaroo will help strengthen regional phosphate rock supply at a time of global uncertainty. We're ready to move from planning to execution and create a reliable, NT-made phosphate rock product for regional agriculture."
"With this approval secured, we will now move swiftly to finalise project funding with our lenders and partners, paving the way for FID and a targeted construction start in 2027."
Phosphate's role in ensuring global food security and supporting the transition to low emissions technologies reinforces the project's importance to both the Northern Territory and the nation.
"I congratulate Verdant Minerals on achieving this significant milestone," said Minister Maley.
"Ammaroo will be a transformative project for the Barkly and Central Australia, and another example of the Territory powering the industries that drive our future."
