Australia’s government will inject AU$840m into a rare earths refinery in the country’s north as part of efforts to boost the country’s role in the energy transition supply chain. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese made the announcement on Thursday, saying the rare earths refinery in the Northern Territory, which will be operated by Australian miner Arafura, would position the country as a global leader in ethical and sustainable manufacturing of these minerals. Albanese explained: “My government is focused on a future made in Australia, and this project is an important part of that plan. “We will deliver critical jobs and economic development in the heart of the Territory and the north.” The importance of a domestic supply of rare earths Rare earths are a group of 17 elements, four of which are essential for permanent magnets used in a variety of technologies, including electric vehicle batteries and wind turbines. Australia has made efforts to reduce its dependence on China for the minerals. However, this remains difficult as China accounts for 70% of rare earth supplies, 85% …