Latest Regional Economic Development News

South Port New Zealand has delivered a record full-year profit in FY26, driven by a strong 11.5% rise in cargo volumes and significant container throughput growth. The company is positioning for future expansion amid leadership changes and cautious FY27 outlook.

Tivan Limited has engaged Indigenous-owned MDM Mining & Civil under an Early Contractor Involvement contract to optimise the access road design for its Speewah Fluorite Project in WA, supporting the ongoing Definitive Feasibility Study.

Metals Australia’s prefeasibility study for its Lac Carheil Graphite Project in Quebec reveals a strong economic foundation with a pre-tax NPV of AUD 790.8 million and a 22% IRR, underpinning its potential as a significant future graphite supplier.

CDL Investments New Zealand (NZX: CDI) has secured Fast-track referral approval for its Middle Road residential development in Havelock North, paving the way for up to 350 new homes and reinforcing its Hawke’s Bay growth pipeline.

Santos delivered a steady first quarter with production up 3% year-on-year, driven by Barossa's initial cargoes and Pikka phase 1 nearing first oil. Free cash flow held firm at $383 million, while a key Moomba optimisation project received final investment approval.

Estrella Resources has released promising initial assay results from its 2025 drilling campaign at the Werumata Limestone Project in Timor-Leste, confirming high-grade, low magnesium limestone and chalk deposits. The company aims for a JORC-compliant resource estimate of at least 500 million tonnes.

CuFe, Emmerson, and Tennant Minerals have won $600,000 in matched government grants to fund a feasibility study for a shared critical minerals processing facility in Tennant Creek, aiming to boost regional mining development.

Strike Resources has taken significant steps to enhance its Apurímac Iron Ore Project’s export capabilities through a new port services agreement and is progressing towards resuming mining operations. Meanwhile, its stake in Lithium Energy benefits from a major asset sale, boosting cash reserves.

Pure Foods Tasmania has launched contract manufacturing with Brilliant Food Australia, marking a significant step in utilising its Woodbridge Smokehouse facility and expanding regional employment.

NRW Holdings’ subsidiary Golding Contractors has landed a $750 million mining services contract at Queensland’s Stanwell Meandu Mine, marking a significant expansion in its contract mining portfolio.

Austral Gold has inked major mining service agreements to advance open pit operations at its Casposo Mine, aligning with its 2026 production targets. Early production is on track, underpinning confidence in the company’s growth trajectory.

Ventia Services Group has secured a significant $100 million contract to provide Whole-of-Government cleaning services across Western Sydney, reinforcing its long-term partnership with the NSW Government and commitment to local economic growth.