Energy Fuels has received final regulatory clearance to develop the Donald rare earth elements (REE) and mineral sand project in Victoria, Australia, as confirmed in a press release on June 25. This approval allows the company to proceed with construction and operation plans, and it represents a potential link between Australia and the U.S. for critical minerals.
The Donald orebody is estimated to hold 37 million tonnes of heavy minerals, including around 724,000 tonnes of rare earths. Initial production is expected to begin in 2026 and will feed Energy Fuels’ White Mesa mill with 7,000 to 8,000 tonnes of rare earth concentrates annually, yielding approximately 4,700 tonnes of total rare earth oxides.
Energy Fuels has partnered with Astron Corp. in a joint venture, investing A$183 million and issuing $17.5 million in shares for a 49% stake in the project. The White Mesa mill, one of the largest REE processing facilities outside China, is already in operation, targeting increased production in future phases.
