The Australian government has designated Astron Corporation's Donald Rare Earth and Mineral Sands project in western Victoria as a major project, highlighting its national importance. Once operational, this site is projected to become the fourth-largest rare earth mine globally, outside of China.

The mine is a collaboration between Hong Kong-based Astron Corporation and Energy Fuels, a U.S. uranium company that is investing $183 million in the project. It will be situated near Minyip, a small town in the Wimmera region with a population of approximately 500 residents. The Victorian government has already granted final approval for the mine's development.

With the new major project status, Astron will benefit from government support in navigating regulatory processes with agencies such as the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment, and Water. The rare earth minerals extracted from the site are intended for use in advanced technologies, including wind turbines and electric vehicles. Additionally, zirconium and titanium from the mine will be utilized in medical equipment and household products like paint. The project will also involve the extraction of trace amounts of uranium, which will be exported to the United States. This marks the first instance of Victoria sourcing saleable uranium, despite the state's ban on uranium mining.

Each year, approximately 7,000 tonnes of heavy minerals and rare earths will be transported to Energy Fuels' facility in Utah.

The major project status is a federal endorsement managed by the Major Projects Facilitation Agency (MPFA). It does not provide funding but offers a federal contact point to streamline regulatory processes. This designation could expedite approvals related to environmental concerns, biosecurity, and foreign investment. The MPFA reserves this status for projects that invest $50 million or more, are strategically significant to Australia, face complex regulatory hurdles, and demonstrate commercial viability.

Tiger Brown, managing director of Astron, stated that this recognition would facilitate better engagement with federal agencies. The company aims to secure full financing to commence early site work in 2026. "With major approvals in place, we are progressing toward a final investment decision, expected later this year," Brown said.

The mine has sparked significant debate within the local community. Farmers have expressed concerns about losing their agricultural land due to the project. Earlier this year, landholders opposing the mine voiced their worries about the impact on prime farmland. Conversely, some residents support the project, viewing it as an opportunity to revitalize the local economy. The federal government has been approached for further comment on the matter.