The first new critical minerals and high-tech metals project under the NSW Government has been approved, further securing NSW as a leading destination for critical minerals investment and boosting the supply of copper to support the state’s renewable energy transition.

Aeris Resources’ Constellation Project is a copper mine located near existing operations at the Tritton Copper Mine in Western NSW, between Nyngan and Cobar. The mine will provide a new source of high‑quality copper ore, supporting the long‑term sustainability of the Tritton Copper Operations.

The NSW Government designated copper as one of the state’s five priority metals, as part of the NSW Critical Minerals and High-Tech Metals Strategy to highlight its vital function in the global shift to net-zero technologies and reinforce NSW’s role in supporting global supply chains.

The Constellation Project includes the development of an open‑cut pit and underground mine, with an expected average production of 500,000 tonnes of copper ore each year.

The copper industry in NSW is already surging, with production increasing by a third over the past three years. Last year about 190,000 tonnes of copper was produced. It is expected that to fulfil global demand and transition the global energy grid, copper production will have to double.

Copper is a critical component in solar panels, electric vehicles, data centres and advanced electrification. It is commonly used across consumer goods, construction, transport, industry and infrastructure - because it is highly conductive and durable.

The government says the approval of the Constellation Project is part of its commitment to growing and supporting the critical minerals and high-tech metals mining sector in NSW.

Construction of the mine is expected to start soon, with operations scheduled to commence before the end of the year, pending completion of construction.

The project is expected to create around 125 jobs (including 90 jobs at the mine) during construction and up to 255 jobs (including 178 operational jobs at the mine) during peak operations. Over its anticipated 16‑year life, the mine is forecast to contribute around $42 million in royalties to the people of NSW.

NSW’s 15 major metals and critical minerals mines employ about 6,000 people, mostly across the Central West and Far West, delivering valuable jobs and economic benefits for regional NSW.

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said, “This is approval is another step forward for NSW’s clean energy transition. And expands the state’s role in global critical minerals supply chains.

“Once operational the mine will become a crucial cog in the renewable energy supply chain, providing copper for the creation of solar panels and electric vehicles, among other products. 

“This is another example of the Minns Labor Government helping drive the shift to renewable energy to create a bright and sustainable future while supporting the creation of more jobs in regional NSW.”

Minister for Natural Resources Courtney Houssos said, “Global demand for copper is rising rapidly, with prices climbing more than 20 per cent this year and our state can step up and meet this demand.

“It is encouraging to see this approval, with the NSW Government recently supporting 21 copper projects under our Critical Minerals and High-Tech Metals Exploration Program.

“Copper will play a critical role in the global renewable energy transition. In 2024, around 30 per cent of copper demand was for new energy technologies and electrification, and by 2030 this could be around 35 per cent.

“With world-class geology, innovative technology, and a clear regulatory system, NSW is well positioned to attract continued investment in critical minerals exploration and production.”