The Northern Territory Government has announced that the Western Desert Resources’ $180 millionRoper Bar Iron Ore project has been awarded major project status.

 

“This proposed project will provide a significant economic boost to the region and create jobs and training opportunities never before seen in the region,” Territory Chief Minister Paul Henderson said.

 

”The project will be required to meet the high environmental standards required by the Northern Territory Government and subject to all necessary environmental clearances and approvals.

 

“We’ve made the decision to award Major Project status to this project to ensure all arms of Government are working together to capitalise on the huge economic benefits this project will bring.

 

“This agreement will ensure the Roper Bar region benefits from the project and will include a local industry participation plan to ensure local businesses are engaged, a community benefits package, and secure open access to shared infrastructure.

 

The proposed project will involve the development of an iron ore operation in the Roper Bar region, approximately 60km south of Ngukurr and 50km from the Gulf of Carpentaria coast. Stage 1 of the project will total approximately $180 million and involve the shipping of 24 million tonnes of ore over eight years.