Minister Madeleine King said the government would prioritise support for critical minerals projects that underpin key technologies such as battery chemicals.

The world's fourth-largest iron ore miner expects to ship between 192 million metric tonnes (Mt) and 197 Mt of the steel-making commodity in the year.

The miner declared an interim dividend of $1.77 per share, below last year's $2.67.

“There is opportunity for consolidation” in the sector, which is dominated by small and mid-sized producers, its managing director said.

The world’s biggest iron ore producer is expected report its lowest half year earnings and dividend in three years on Wednesday.

The $135m contract with Monadelphous Group is part of Albemarle's plans to double lithium hydroxide output at the plant.

Rio will acquire a 50% equity stake in Giampaolo Group’s wholly-owned Matalco business.

Australia's largest gold miner reported a 9.1% sequential rise in fourth-quarter gold output.