A new expert advisory panel to advance the production of green metals, which will have flow-on benefits for regions such as the Hunter, will be announced on Thursday.
Green metals, such as lithium and copper, are needed for the production of solar panels and lithium batteries and clean energy infrastructure.
The federal government estimates the 'greener metals' industry could deliver up to $122 billion a year to Australia's economy, while reducing emissions by as much as 250 megatonnes by 2040.
Members of the new green metals advisory panel were joined today by Minister Husic, meeting for the first time to promote and accelerate greener metals manufacturing.
Mr Husic said Australia's vast natural resources paired with abundant renewable energy could position the nation as one of the lowest-cost, low-emissions metals producers in the world.
"From Whyalla to Gladstone and Bell Bay to Collie, Australia has a proud history in metal manufacturing. Shifting to greener metals production provides an opportunity for a sustainable future, to continue that rich legacy," he said.
"Making more things here to create more jobs and grow businesses is what a Future Made in Australia is all about, that's why we're making the investments that back Australia's manufacturers to turn that vision into a reality."
The panel offers decades of experience in metals industries, financing, research, decarbonisation and industrial workforce issues.
Members include chief executive of the Australian Steel Institute Mark Cain, National Secretary of the Australian Workers Union Paul Farrow, National managing partner, KPMG Paul Howes, chief executive of the Australian Aluminium Council Marghanita Johnson, National Secretary of the Australian Manufacturing Workers Union Steve Murphy and chief executive of the Heavy Industry Low-Carbon Transition Cooperative Research Centre Jenny Selway.
Advice from the panel will complement views being gathered from around the country as part of the green metals consultation, which generated over 90 submissions from producers, peak bodies, researchers and others.
The panel will also help inform the Government's Net Zero Industrial Plan to drive down emissions and support investment across the industrial sector.
The panel will provide independent advice to support the preparation of policy options on green metals and industry decarbonisation.
To find out more or to have your say, visit consult.industry.gov.au.
