News: Suppliers
24 August 2026
Ground broken on Alcoa-Sojitz Gallium Recovery Project in Western Australia
In what is described as a milestone for Australia’s international supply chain security, ground has been broken on the Alcoa-Sojitz Gallium Recovery Project in Western Australia.
The project, at the Wagerup Alumina Refinery of Alcoa Corp (which provides bauxite, alumina and aluminium products), is expected to help establish Australia as a significant global producer of gallium.
The project represents an important investment between the governments of Australia, Japan and the USA, with support from the Western Australian Government, says Madeleine King, Minister for Resources and Northern Australia. “This is a real example of how Australia, together with trusted partners, is stepping up to lead on critical minerals and rare earths globally,” she adds.
“Investments like the Alcoa-Sojitz Gallium Recovery Project are about building Australia’s industrial strength,” says Tim Ayres, Industry and Innovation and Minister for Science. “By partnering with trusted allies and investing in capability here at home, we’re creating a more resilient economy and securing Australia’s place in the industries of the future.”
Once fully operational, the Alcoa facility is expected to produce up to 10% of the world’s gallium supply, making a substantial contribution to global demand and strengthening supply security for international partners.
Australia, Japan, the USA and Alcoa investing in gallium project in Western Australia
