Australia and Canada have signed new agreements to strengthen cooperation in the supply and development of critical minerals, marking a significant step in efforts by both countries to secure strategic resources essential for emerging technologies and the global energy transition.

The agreements were announced during high-level meetings in Canberra between Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, who is visiting the country as part of a broader diplomatic tour across the Indo-Pacific.

Both leaders emphasized the growing importance of reliable supply chains for minerals used in electric vehicles, advanced manufacturing and renewable energy systems.

Under the new arrangements, Australia and Canada will expand collaboration in exploration, extraction, processing and investment in critical minerals such as lithium, nickel, cobalt and rare earth elements.

These resources play a central role in the production of batteries, semiconductors, defence technologies and other advanced industries.

Officials from both governments said the partnership aims to align policies and strengthen supply chains among trusted partners at a time when demand for critical minerals is accelerating globally.

By coordinating regulatory frameworks, financing and research initiatives, the two countries intend to attract greater investment into mining and processing capacity.

Australia and Canada are among the world’s most resource-rich economies, each possessing significant deposits of minerals considered essential for modern technologies.

Their cooperation is expected to support the development of more resilient supply chains that reduce dependence on limited suppliers and help stabilize markets.

The agreements also include plans for increased collaboration between research institutions, industry groups and government agencies.

Areas of focus include environmentally responsible mining techniques, advanced mineral processing and the development of downstream manufacturing linked to battery technologies.

Prime Minister Albanese described the partnership as a natural extension of the strong economic and strategic ties between the two countries, noting that collaboration in critical minerals will support long-term economic growth and technological development.

Carney said the agreements demonstrate how trusted partners can work together to shape emerging industries and ensure that key resources are produced and supplied responsibly.

He added that closer cooperation between Canada and Australia could help strengthen broader global supply chains during a period of rapid technological change and geopolitical uncertainty.

The new deals come amid rising global competition for critical minerals as governments seek secure access to materials needed for clean energy systems, defence capabilities and next-generation electronics.