Elisa Schu/dpa – Deutsche Presse Agentur, Alice Springs News

Germany is investing €50m ($58m) in a rare earth mine north of Alice Springs, near Aileron, in a bid to secure access to the crucial materials for German businesses, according to Economy Minister Katherina Reiche (pictured).

Germany is investing the money via its raw materials fund in the Nolans mine operated by Australian mining company Arafura Rare Earths, according to the ministry.

The mine is intended to supply neodymium and praseodymium, which are needed to manufacture high-performance magnets in electric motors and wind turbines.

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This article appeared on Alice Springs News on 2 April 2026.