The Queensland Government is set to invest in Gladstone-based company Alpha HPA to facilitate the manufacturing of sapphire glass used in smartwatches and smartphones from locally produced alumina.
This investment, channelled through the $100 million Queensland Critical Minerals and Battery Technology Fund managed by the Queensland Investment Corporation (QIC), aims to expedite the deployment of two purpose-built furnaces, which will be instrumental in producing sapphire glass.
Alpha HPA will employ these units to “grow” sapphire glass from High Purity Alumina (HPA) in Gladstone, with an annual output capacity exceeding four tonnes, the government revealed in a media statement.
The exceptional durability of sapphire glass makes it a coveted material for use in micro-LEDs and smartphone screens, driving global demand, the government stated.
By enabling local sapphire glass production, Queensland aims to capture substantial value in the advanced materials supply chain while unlocking new export opportunities.
Treasurer and Minister for Trade and Investment Cameron Dick stated, “Through this $100 million Fund and our $245 million Queensland Critical Minerals Strategy, we can turn Queensland’s mineral wealth into new jobs in new industries, especially in regional Queensland.”
Glenn Butcher, Minister for Regional Development and Manufacturing and Member for Gladstone, emphasised the commitment to expanding the state’s critical minerals processing capabilities to support downstream value addition and export opportunities.
“By improving the viability of the HPA Project, our investment will support the local High Purity Alumina industry and downstream uses like the semiconductor, lithium-ion battery, and LED lighting sectors,” Minister Butcher noted.
Rimas Kairaitis, managing director of Alpha HPA, expressed delight at securing funding for Alpha Sapphire and the broader support from QIC and the Queensland Government.
“Alpha HPA is delighted to have reached agreement with QIC on funding for Alpha Sapphire and for the broader support from QIC and the Queensland Government to support private sector investment to add value via downstream processing of Queensland’s materials,” the Alpha HPA official said.
Kylie Rampa, CEO of QIC, highlighted the importance of supporting the critical minerals sector’s growth in Queensland and the competitive advantages offered by the state.
Managed by QIC, the $100 million Queensland Critical Minerals and Battery Technology Fund comprises two investment streams: venture and growth capital investments overseen by QIC and projects seeking grant assistance referred to Queensland Treasury.
Eligible companies must align with fund objectives and Queensland Government policy objectives, aiming to benefit Queensland through industry capability development, private sector infrastructure development, job creation, and training opportunities.
