NSW offers co-funding for deeper digs in Critical Minerals search
A new $2.5 million NSW funding program will support early-stage exploration for critical minerals and high-tech metals, with matched contributions required and projects to be completed by 2027.
The NSW Government has launched a new $2.5 million seed funding program to support exploration for critical minerals and high-tech metals, with applications open until 30 June 2025. The funding is part of the state's Critical Minerals and High-Tech Metals Strategy 2024–35 and aims to help companies gather early geological data through drilling, geophysics, and geochemistry.
The program is designed to help identify deposits essential to technologies like solar panels, wind turbines, batteries, electric vehicles, and medical equipment. A co-investment model requires successful applicants to contribute at least 50% of the total project cost.
Funding is available across three types of exploration work:
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Geochemistry: Up to $50,000 per project
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Geophysics: Up to $70,000 per project
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Drilling: Projects drilling less than 250 metres deep may receive up to $150,000, while deeper drilling projects over 250 metres can apply for up to $250,000
Projects must be completed by 30 September 2027, and successful recipients will be announced on 30 September 2025.
The NSW Government says the program aims to increase exploration activity across the state by supporting early technical work that helps assess the scale of mineral deposits.
Applications opened at 9 am on Wednesday 16 April 2025 and close at 5 pm on Monday 30 June 2025.
Applicants are encouraged to attend an online information session at 10:00 am on 30 April 2025 to learn more about how to apply and what to include. The session will cover program guidelines, assessment criteria and project eligibility.
The program supports the NSW Government’s goal for the state to be “a leader in critical minerals and high-tech metals, generating economic prosperity through responsible exploration, mining, processing, recycling, and advanced manufacturing.”
In addition to energy technologies, critical minerals are needed for producing mobile phones, semiconductors, and components used in defence and healthcare sectors.
Interested applicants should prepare to co-invest and complete their proposed exploration work within the two-year delivery timeframe.
