Construction of a rare earths mine and processing plant in the Red Centre is set to start in September in a challenge to China's dominance in the sector.
The Arafura Rare Earths Nolans Project 135km north of Alice Springs has been declared the first Significant Project under the Northern Territory Coordinator Act.
That provides a clear and faster pathway through NT government processes for projects of profound economic significance.
The open-cut mine and rare earths processing plant will be the first integrated project of its kind in Australia, with construction expected to begin in September.
Arafura's final investment decision on May 21 to build its Nolans Project marked a major milestone as the West seeks to reduce its economic reliance on China.
