ACDC Metals Reports 6,800 Tonnes Annual Rare Earth Potential at Goschen Central

Strategic Timing for Rare Earths

ACDC Metals Limited (ASX, ADC) has released results from an expanded mineralogy program at its Goschen Central Heavy Mineral Sand and Rare Earth Element Project in western Victoria. The timing of this announcement is notable, arriving shortly after the signing of the Australia-US Critical Minerals Framework, a landmark agreement aimed at securing sustainable supply chains for critical minerals including rare earth elements (REEs).

The framework agreement underscores Australia's growing role as a trusted supplier to the US and global markets, particularly for minerals essential to defence, transport, and advanced manufacturing technologies. Against this geopolitical backdrop, ACDC Metals’ findings add tangible substance to the strategic narrative.

Mineralogy Validates Economic Potential

The detailed mineralogy program focused on the Goschen Central resource has revealed a high concentration of monazite and xenotime; minerals rich in both light and heavy REEs. Notably, the high-grade zones within the deposit exhibit elevated magnetic REE values, including praseodymium at 1060 ppm and neodymium at 3990 ppm, alongside significant terbium and dysprosium content.

This mineral assemblage is complemented by substantial proportions of zircon (25.4%) and rutile (12.7%), both valuable heavy minerals. The results validate the scoping study’s high grading strategy, which targets zones with over 3% total heavy mineral content to maximise economic returns.

Pathway to Development and Market Relevance

ACDC Metals’ scoping study previously outlined a potential annual production of 6,800 tonnes of rare earth mineral concentrate, a figure that gains credibility with these new mineralogical insights. The company is progressing its retention licence application, expected to be granted in the first quarter of 2026, a critical regulatory milestone that secures long-term tenure and development readiness.

The Victorian Government’s recent approvals for other mining projects in the region reinforce a positive regulatory environment, which is crucial for advancing the Goschen Central project. This supportive stance aligns with broader policy trends favouring critical minerals development in Australia.

Implications of the Australia-US Critical Minerals Framework

The recently signed Australia-US Critical Minerals Framework commits significant funding and project acceleration efforts to reduce reliance on Chinese processing and strengthen allied supply chains. With an $8.5 billion investment pipeline and over $1 billion in immediate funding, this partnership creates a favourable backdrop for projects like Goschen Central.

ACDC Metals’ positioning within this framework could enhance its access to financing, offtake agreements, and strategic partnerships, potentially accelerating its path from exploration to production. The company’s focus on sustainable and traceable REE supply aligns well with the framework’s objectives.

Looking Ahead

While the project remains at the exploration and scoping stage, the combination of robust mineralogy, regulatory progress, and geopolitical momentum places ACDC Metals in a strong position. Investors and market watchers will be keen to see forthcoming updates on resource estimates, licence approvals, and commercial arrangements that could unlock the project’s full value.