Our Commodities
About Copper
Copper is a high-demand and versatile resource essential to modern infrastructure
Copper is a highly conductive, malleable and corrosion-resistant metal used across electrical systems, construction, transport, communications and industrial equipment. It can be formed into wire, sheets and components without losing its valuable properties. The durability and recyclability of copper also support its use across long-life assets, from buildings and electricity networks to transport systems and industrial machinery, making it essential across a wide range of applications.
With electricity being pivotal to modern living, copper’s highly electrical capacity has established and supports its continued role across both traditional and emerging technologies.
Australia holds approximately 10% of the world’s known copper resources, but only accounts for 3% of global production1. With global copper demand expected to increase to approximately 31.3 million tonnes2 by 2030, Australia’s untapped copper resources highlight the country’s potential role as a long-term supplier.
Qualities
Electrical Conductivity
Thermal Conductivity
Corrosion Resistance
Malleability
Durability
High Melting Point
Recyclability
New copper supply is not keeping pace with demand
Demand Drivers
- Electrification (EVs, renewables)
- Grid expansion
- AI and data centre power demand
Supply Constraints
- Declining discoveries
- ~40% grade decline
- 15+ year development timelines
Copper grades down ~40% since 1991
Discovery rates declining despite higher spend
Primary Applications
Building and Industrial
Residential and public infrastructure including heating and cooling systems, electrical wiring and plumbing.
Electrical Networks
Essential in equipment where generating, transmitting and distributing electricity is required including cables, transformers and substations.
Consumer Products
Copper is found in household appliances, smartphones and personal items that have become a part of everyday life.
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Growth in artificial intelligence and cloud computing is increasing demand for energy. Data centres and telecommunications also rely on copper for power distribution.
Transportation
Copper has been used across a wide range of transport modes including conventional and electric vehicles, shipping and rail.
Renewable Energy
Wind, solar and energy-storage systems require copper to generate, transmit and manage electricity.
