Extractive Metallurgy Hub

Enabling Western Australia’s transition to sustainable metals production and a low-carbon economy.

Our facilities
WA Premier and Ministers opening the EM Hub

About the centre

The Extractive Metallurgy Hub strengthens Australia’s sovereign capability by advancing sustainable mineral processing and metal extraction. Bringing together industry, academia and government, it drives innovation across mineral processing, hydrometallurgy, pyrometallurgy and electrometallurgy, with expertise in refining critical metals and rare earth elements to develop future-ready technologies and capability.

Explore the facility

Explore our Rockingham pilot plant and six specialised labs equipped with sophisticated analytical tools for process optimisation and advanced mineral characterisation.

Explore the facility
Image of staff outside HBI EMH Hub
EMH Opening 23 July Plaque Unveiling

Origins of the Hub

The Hub was developed with support from the Minerals Research Institute of Western Australia (MRIWA) and grant funding from the State Government’s Investment Attraction Fund, administered by the Department of Energy and Economic Diversification. It was officially opened in July 2025 by Magenta Marshall MLA, Murdoch University Vice Chancellor Andrew Deeks, Harry Butler Institute Executive Director Treena Burgess, City of Rockingham Mayor Deb Hamlin, and Professor Aleks Nikoloski.

Our researchers

Get to know our research team, headed by Professor Aleks Nikoloski, including our Honours, Masters and PhD research students.

Learn more
Aleks Nikoloski

Collaborate with us

Contact us if you are looking for expert consultation, innovative solutions or research services in extractive metallurgy. We also offer workforce training and masterclasses on expert topics throughout the year, as well as tours for industry, government agencies, schools and corporate entities.

Professor Aleks Nikoloski
Extractive Metallurgy Hub Lead
Email

  A.Nikoloski@murdoch.edu.au

How to get here

The best way to find your way around is with Murdoch Maps. You can explore our facilities, services or a specific location.