A business case for a $145 million critical mineral research hub in Mount Isa has secured funding for a feasibility study.
The centre will provide early analysis and testing for prospective mines trying to scale operations in the region.
The federal and state governments have agreed to tip in $241,250 each to fund trials, with an additional $482,500 to come from Mount Isa City Council.
Mount Isa's push to reinvent its regional economy with a new mineral research hub has secured state and federal backing for a feasibility study.
Mount Isa City Council and the University of Queensland released a business case earlier this month for a $145 million critical minerals research centre.
The facility would allow mining companies to analyse rock samples from local mineral deposits to see what minerals were present and if they would be viable to mine.
In July 2025, Mount Isa's underground copper mine closure saw nearly 500 workers sacked in the 19,000-strong community, forcing the council to search for economic alternatives.
While Mount Isa's economy has been affected, exploration and investment across the wider North West Minerals Province has boomed, with about 85 critical minerals projects underway.
Sustainable Minerals Institute director at the University of Queensland Rick Valenta said the proposed hub would allow industry to scale operations quickly.
