Mines and Petroleum Minister Bill Johnston today launched the first actions of the Minerals Research Institute of Western Australia's (MRIWA) Net Zero Emission Mining Challenge.
Up to $1.5 million will be invested in funding research and development in Western Australia's energy and emissions intensive mining sector.
A $1 million competitive funding round opened today to co-fund research proposals that address challenges to reducing emissions in the mining industry.
Additionally, expressions of interest opened today for small to medium businesses in the Mining, Equipment, Technology and Services (METS) sector to participate in CSIRO's Innovate to Grow online program.
The free 10-week program will commence in July and help METS leaders develop innovative solutions to business challenges related to net zero emission mining in Western Australia.
The McGowan Government (through MRIWA) is offering $500,000 ($20,000 to $50,000 per grant) to eligible program participants to develop their solutions. These grants require matched funding and will be subject to an application process after the program's completion.
Applications for CSIRO's Innovate to Grow program close on June 28, 2021 and applications for the $1 million competitive funding round close on July 7, 2021.
For more information and to apply for either initiative, visit https://www.mriwa.wa.gov.au/challenges/net-zero-emission-mining
As stated by Mines and Petroleum Minister Bill Johnston:
"The McGowan Government is committed to supporting research and development in Western Australia's mining sector and ensuring it remains a world leader in the METS sector.
"Today's funding announcement will support the diversification of our State's economy, and progress research on overcoming the challenges to decarbonise the mining sector.
"METS are a vital part of the resources sector supply chain, and I encourage all eligible small businesses to apply and play a role in the McGowan Government's commitment of net zero emissions by 2050."
