In an open letter, investors including Aberdeen Standard Investments, M&G Investments and Legal & General Investment Management said that all lobbying by third parties should be consistent with mining companies’ views and producers should exit lobby groups if this isn’t the case.

The tenements cover more than 50 square kilometres of the highly prospective Narracoota Formation.

The project was once considered Australia's next big prospect for iron ore riches outside of the Pilbara.

Some 3,200 ounces of coarse gold have been recovered from the 15 Level A Zone.

Experts say such challenges have the potential to significantly impact the global supply of metals.

Junior explorers going into uncharted territory are on the map - and making a mark, especially in the gold and copper sectors.

The Carmichael mine has been a lighting rod for climate change concerns in Australia.

Fortescue said the project would cut carbon emissions by about 40% at its Christmas Creek and Cloudbreak mines.