Global mining company Rio Tinto is initiating early works and final engineering studies for the Kangwinan project, a significant expansion of its Amrun bauxite mine on Cape York Peninsula in Far North Queensland. This project, named at the request of the Wik Waya Traditional Owners, aims for its first output by 2029.

The expansion will involve a new mine and port upgrades to nearly double bauxite production from Rio Tinto’s Weipa Southern operations. This increased output, up to 20 million tons annually beyond current levels, will replace declining production from the Andoom and Gove mines, which are expected to close by the end of the decade.

Armando Torres, the Managing Director of Pacific Aluminium at Rio Tinto, said that the project reinforces confidence in Cape York's bauxite deposits and aims to secure the region's long-term mining future.

A final investment decision is expected in 2026, subject to related approvals.