Northern Minerals Gets Expanded Mining Lease for Browns Range Project

Expanded Lease Positions Browns Range as a Key Rare Earth Asset

Northern Minerals has secured an expanded mining lease (M80/650) for its Browns Range project in Western Australia. This lease replaces the former M80/627 and increases the area from 4,923 to 10,458 hectares. Native title parties approved the change, which converts exploration ground into a long-term lease valid until 2046. An optional 21-year extension adds further stability.

Browns Range remains central to Northern Minerals’ strategy to supply heavy rare earths, including dysprosium and terbium. These elements are essential for permanent magnets in EVs, wind turbines, and defence systems. The lease expansion directly supports the company’s development roadmap outlined in its DFS published on September 15, 2025.

With approvals in place, Northern Minerals is accelerating exploration and site development. The Wolverine deposit, located at Browns Range, is Australia’s richest source of dysprosium and terbium. The company plans to process this ore for delivery to Iluka Resources’ upcoming refinery in Eneabba, Western Australia.

Browns Range to Boost Non-Chinese Rare Earth Supply

The phrase “Northern Minerals gets expanded mining lease” signals a shift in Australia’s rare earths market. As global industries seek non-Chinese sources, Browns Range offers a timely and strategic option. Northern Minerals aims to position itself as a leading supplier of dysprosium and terbium, two metals heavily controlled by China.

The DFS outlines a commercial-scale operation focused on Wolverine. The company will mine and process ore to produce high-grade rare earth concentrates. These will support Australia’s domestic refining, reducing dependence on overseas supply. Browns Range also hosts additional xenotime-based deposits, offering long-term growth potential.

This lease expansion strengthens Australia’s push for critical mineral independence. As demand for permanent magnets rises, especially in EVs and renewables, Browns Range becomes a cornerstone project. Northern Minerals now plays a vital role in building a more secure and diverse global rare earth supply chain.

SuperMetalPrice Commentary:

Northern Minerals’ lease expansion is a strategic win for Australia’s rare earth ambitions. It’s not just a land deal—it’s a move toward supply chain resilience. As Iluka Resources prepares its Eneabba refinery, feedstock from Browns Range could fuel Australia’s emergence as a rare earth leader. Investors, OEMs, and policymakers should monitor this development closely. It signals accelerating momentum in the global race for critical minerals and downstream integration.