The EU and Australia began a new partnership on Critical Raw Minerals in 2024.

The EU and Australia have created a shared framework to build secure, ethical, and sustainable supply chains for critical and strategic minerals. These minerals are essential for clean energy, digital technologies, and advanced industries such as defence and aerospace. By cooperating across the full value chain — from extraction to recycling — both partners reduce reliance on fragile global supply chains and strengthen long-term economic resilience.

Modern economies depend on reliable access to critical raw materials.

The EU’s Critical Raw Materials Act, which entered into force in May 2024, identifies materials vital for renewable energy, digital infrastructure, and defence.

Rather than relying on a small number of suppliers, the EU is building partnerships with trusted countries. Australia’s natural resources, expertise and high standards make it a reliable partner.

In November 2025, the European Investment Bank (EIB), and the Australian Government signed a declaration of intent to strengthen cooperation on critical raw materials. This agreement expands the existing EU–Australia partnership, focusing on the entire value chain, from extraction to processing.

Australian-run projects now account for over ten percent of the first Strategic Projects in Europe selected by the EU under the CRMA. Strategic Projects contribute significantly to Europe’s green and digital transitions, while supporting Europe’s defence industry and aerospace industries.