Northern Territory announces $3 Million grant to supercharge mining and critical minerals projects

A major funding boost will drive new discoveries and support businesses in the Northern Territory’s mining sector.

NT Minister for Mining and Energy Gerard Maley.

The Northern Territory’s mining sector is set for a boost, with the CLP Government announcing $3 million in grants to support resource exploration and development.

Applications are now open for Round 18 of the Geophysics and Drilling Collaborations (GDC) program, which co-funds projects aimed at filling geoscientific knowledge gaps and advancing exploration across the NT.

At least $2 million of this funding will go towards projects targeting critical minerals, a growing focus for the Territory’s economy.

Mining and Energy Minister Gerard Maley said the initiative would create new business opportunities and local jobs.

“This investment in our exploration sector is instrumental for our economy, and with the potential for the Territory’s critical minerals set to increase, we are backing projects that will drive growth,” he said.

The program will cover up to 50 per cent of drilling costs (for both new and existing sites), regional geophysical surveys, and innovative exploration techniques.

This year, funding caps for regional-scale geophysical projects have increased from $100,000 to $150,000.

Recent GDC-funded drilling has already led to critical mineral discoveries, including graphite at Pine Creek and rare earths in the Barkly region.

A new Territory Supplier Incentive will also encourage businesses to use NT-based services in their exploration work.

Applications close on April 28, 2025. More details can be found at resourcingtheterritory.nt.gov.au.

Originally published as Northern Territory announces $3 Million grant to supercharge mining and critical minerals projects