A historic First Nations-led joint venture has announced plans to explore a AU$2.5 billion renewable diesel refinery near Geraldton, aiming to boost fuel security and reduce emissions across Australia’s heavy transport, mining, and agriculture sectors.
Under a memorandum of understanding signed by the Yamatji Southern Regional Corporation (YSRC), strategy and design firm Veyter, and parent company Agilitas Advisory Corp, concept-stage feasibility work has commenced.
The project is structured with 51 per cent First Nations majority ownership, ensuring Yamatji Traditional Owners hold a controlling stake in the major industrial asset on their Country.
The proposed facility would refine locally sourced canola and tallow into approximately 1.1 billion litres of “Agri-Diesel” annually, equal to 4 per cent of total national diesel demand.
As a drop-in substitute for standard petroleum diesel, the fuel requires no engine modifications while reducing lifecycle carbon emissions by roughly 85 per cent.
“For Yamatji people, this is about moving beyond participation to genuine ownership of major industry on our Country,” said Luka Gray, CEO of YSRC.
“A project of this scale has the potential to create lasting economic opportunities for Yamatji people, Mid West growers and the broader region, while contributing to Australia’s domestic fuel security.”
Australia currently imports around 80 per cent of its refined fuel despite exporting vast quantities of raw feedstocks, including Western Australian canola.
By processing feedstocks domestically, the project aims to insulate local industries from global supply chain shocks and wholesale import premiums.
Potential locations under assessment include the Oakajee Strategic Industrial Estate. Early estimates project the construction phase will generate around 4,000 jobs, alongside 400 permanent operational roles once production commences.
A 12-month pre-feasibility study is currently underway, targeting completion by late 2027.
Subject to regulatory support under the government’s emerging low-carbon liquid fuel policies and a final investment decision, first commercial production is targeted for 2032.