The Tasmanian Minerals, Manufacturing and Energy Council (TMEC) has welcomed the approval for Sibanye-Stillwater’s Copper Mines of Tasmania (CMT) restart, describing the decision as a major win for the West Coast and a significant boost for Tasmania’s economy.

TMEC President Ben Maynard said the announcement marked an important milestone for the state’s resources sector and the regional communities that depend on it.

“There are many considerations involved in approving a mine, or the restart of a mining operation, and those decisions are never made overnight,” Mr Maynard said.

“Today’s announcement is the culmination of a thorough feasibility study and assessment process, and TMEC is delighted to see approval granted for the restart of the operation at Mt Lyell.

“This is a positive outcome for the West Coast, for Tasmania’s mining sector, and for the many workers, businesses and communities that benefit from a strong and sustainable resources industry.”

Mr Maynard said the restart would deliver benefits well beyond the mine site itself.

“A mine restart means jobs. It means renewed investment in regional Tasmania. It means expenditure flowing through local businesses, contractors and suppliers.

“The economic impact extends well beyond direct employment, supporting transport operators, engineering firms, manufacturers, maintenance providers, professional services and countless small businesses throughout Tasmania.

“These projects create confidence, encourage investment and strengthen the regional communities that help drive our state’s economy.”

TMEC’s latest industry analysis highlights the important role the minerals sector continues to play in Tasmania’s economic success. Based on ABS data, Tasmania’s mining and minerals sector directly over four thousand people, predominantly in regional areas. In 2025-26, the sector delivered record royalties of approximately $93.7 million and $2.7 million in rentals and other fees to the Tasmanian Government.

Mr Maynard said mining remains one of Tasmania’s foundational industries.

“The minerals sector is a major contributor to Tasmania’s prosperity. It provides high-value regional employment, generates significant revenue for government, and underpins investment across the state.

“It also represents around 50 to 60 per cent of Tasmania’s electricity demand, providing critical baseload consumption that supports ongoing investment in our energy system and network infrastructure.

“Together, Tasmania’s mining and manufacturing sectors anchor billions of dollars of expenditure across complex supply chains and support tens of thousands of additional jobs in every corner of the state economy.”

Mr Maynard said the approval sends a strong signal that Tasmania remains an attractive destination for responsible industrial investment.

“This decision demonstrates that Tasmania can maintain rigorous regulatory standards while supporting projects that deliver long-term economic and community benefits.

“We congratulate Sibanye-Stillwater on reaching this important milestone and their considered investment in our state. We look forward to seeing the benefits flow through the West Coast and the broader Tasmanian community for years to come.”

September 2, 2026