Collaborative Development Program QLD

Purpose and Program Overview

The Collaborative Development Program (CDP) is a Queensland Government initiative. It supports companies in recovering and accelerating the development of critical minerals from mine waste. The program funds efforts to find and extract remaining mineralisation from mine waste and residual materials left in the ground. This supports further mineral opportunities. By enabling the recovery and reprocessing of minerals from mine waste, the CDP contributes to sustainable resource management and job creation. It also aids the growth of Queensland’s critical minerals sector. This sector is important for the renewable energy transition and broader economic development.

The program has a total funding pool of $5 million. It targets innovative projects that aim to extract valuable minerals from waste stockpiles, tailings, ash, and other residual mining materials. This method supports circular economy principles and increases resource efficiency in Queensland. The Collaborative Development Program is open until 30 June 2027 or until the allocated funds are fully granted.

The program plays a role in Queensland’s Critical Minerals Strategy. It helps access additional mineral resources. It also encourages reprocessing technologies. It supports economic variety within the mining and resources sectors. The program is administered by the Department of Natural Resources, Mines, Manufacturing and Regional and Rural Development.

Key Grant Details

• Grant amount: Funding varies. Applicants must justify project budgets.
• Application open: Open now.
• Application closes: Open until 30 June 2027 or until funds are used.
• Eligible industries/business types: Queensland registered companies involved in mineral recovery and reprocessing in the mining and resource sectors.
• Co-contributions: Not explicitly stated. Applicants are encouraged to show commitment and capacity.
• Location applicability: Projects must be based in or operate in Queensland.

Priority Sectors

The program primarily supports the critical minerals sector. It focuses on industries involved in mining, mineral processing, and resource recovery. It encourages projects that explore reprocessing opportunities, further mineral potential, and by-product recovery. This includes critical minerals and the reuse of mine waste. The program is open to sector-relevant mining and resource companies. The emphasis is on minerals important for renewable energy and advanced manufacturing.

Funding Scope

• Funding range: No specific minimum or maximum. Grants are awarded based on project merit and demonstrated outcomes.
• Funding categories/streams:
  • Extraction and recovery of critical minerals from mine waste and tailings.
  • Assessment of residual mineral content and development of recovery technologies.
  • Pilot projects and feasibility studies for reprocessing mine waste.
• Project timeline: Projects typically match funding periods up to 2027. Timelines depend on the specific project.

Grant Amount in Total

The total funding pool is $5 million.

Eligibility Criteria

Queensland registered companies with relevant mining or mineral processing licenses or permits, including:

• Holder or operator of an Exploration Permit for Minerals (EPM).
• Holder or operator of a Mining Lease (ML) or Mineral Development Licence (MDL).
• Operator of mineral processing or reprocessing infrastructure in Queensland.
• Holder or operator of waste tailings dams or coal-fired power station fly-ash facilities in Queensland.
• Must comply with all necessary regulatory approvals related to mining and waste handling.
• Ability to show technical and financial capacity to deliver project outcomes.
• Valid Australian Business Number (ABN) and relevant registrations.

Eligible Activities and Expenses

• Exploration and assessment of mineral content in mine waste.
• Development and testing of mineral recovery and reprocessing technologies.
• Environmental and technical feasibility studies.
• Pilot plant operation and demonstration projects.
• Project management and reporting are associated with funded activities.

Assessment Process

This is a competitive, merit-based evaluation. The Queensland Department of Natural Resources, Mines, Manufacturing and Regional and Rural Development conducts the assessment.

Key criteria include:

• Technical feasibility and innovation potential.
• Alignment with Queensland Critical Minerals Strategy and circular economy principles.
• Economic and employment benefits for Queensland.
• Environmental sustainability and resource efficiency.
• Demonstrated capacity and co-funding commitment.

Recent Program Updates

The Collaborative Development Program continues until 30 June 2027. It will also close if the $5 million funding pool is fully used. Recent awards include projects that target the recovery of vanadium, alumina, and other critical minerals from mine waste. The program remains a key part of Queensland’s evolving critical minerals policy framework.

Application Tips

• Confirm eligibility by holding relevant mining permits or operator status in Queensland.
• Prepare clear project plans. Include detailed technical methods and expected outcomes.
• Show economic, environmental, and social benefits tied to project delivery.
• Provide evidence of capacity to manage and co-fund projects where applicable.
• Speak early with the program contacts for guidance and clarification on application requirements.
• Submit applications well before funding is used to improve your chances of success.

Where to Get Help

Consider consulting with a professional grant specialist like Pattens Group. We offer initial assessments to review your business’s eligibility and evaluate how well your project aligns with the grant’s objectives. You can also visit relevant Queensland government websites for application templates and further guidance.