Liontown Resources Limited Launches Australia’s First Underground Lithium Mine with A$205M Revenue and Record Operational Milestones

Tuesday, May 6, 2025
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Liontown Resources Limited celebrates a major milestone with Australia’s first underground lithium mine. The company has transitioned from open-pit to efficient underground operations, recording strong production and positive cash flow—positioning itself to capitalize on rising global lithium demand and promising low-cost, long-term growth.

Liontown Resources Limited has unveiled robust progress as its Kathleen Valley Lithium Operation continues to deliver significant production milestones, positioning the company as a leading player in Australia’s battery minerals sector. The company, headquartered in Perth, announced that its underground lithium mine—the first of its kind in Australia—is progressing on schedule. Since first production in July 2024, the operation has seen strong outputs through both open pit and underground mining methods, with record concentrate production and improving recovery rates. The presentation details how high-grade spodumene concentrate has been produced, and operational efficiencies have led to positive net cash flow for two consecutive quarters. The technical disclosures highlight a multi-decade mine life underpinned by a robust Mineral Resource Estimate of 155 million tonnes at an average Li2O grade of 1.3%, with an additional high-grade resource of 15 million tonnes at 1.0% Li2O. The transition from open pit operations—which are on track to finish in the third quarter of FY26—to a ramped-up underground production has been marked by high jumbo productivity and effective ore hygiene, all contributing to lower waste-to-ore ratios and improved economics. With advancements such as a new paste plant and ongoing optimisation in processing techniques—from improved comminution and classification to flotation strategies—average lithia recovery has reached about 64% and is on course to hit a 70% target by Q3 FY26. Operationally, the company recorded significant production outputs with nearly 208,629 dmt processed and record monthly figures of over 37,000 dmt for concentrate produced in March 2025. Sales figures and revenue figures—as well as a maintained strong cash balance with an inventory of saleable concentrate—underscore effective cost management amid challenging market conditions. The company’s strategic capital investments and continued improvements in processing efficiency, combined with an adaptable mine plan that factors in both open pit and “one mine” underground strategies, underline a commitment to efficiency and long-term cost advantages. Market conditions for lithium remain buoyant, driven by growth in electric vehicle and energy storage system demand. However, macroeconomic uncertainty, tariff market issues, and inventory destocking have contributed to short-term price weakness. While forward-looking statements hinge on assumptions regarding mining schedules, throughput volumes, and commodity pricing, Liontown Resources Limited is well positioned to capitalize on a market turnaround, supported by worldwide demand forecasts that point to substantial lithium demand growth from major battery manufacturers. From a bullish perspective, strong operational execution, on-time production ramp-ups, and improved recovery rates highlight robust fundamentals that could drive future profitability. The company’s strategic investments in underground mining and downstream opportunities, backed by positive cash flows and a resilient business model, provide a promising outlook for investors. On the bearish side, uncertainties remain regarding market volatility, potential delays in production ramp-ups, and broader macroeconomic challenges—including inflationary pressures—that could impact cost structures and commodity prices. Investors should be mindful of these risks alongside the company’s forward-looking assumptions, which are subject to changes in operating conditions and market demand. Overall, Liontown Resources Limited’s announcement paints a comprehensive picture of progress at the Kathleen Valley Lithium Operation, underlining strong performance and promising growth drivers amid evolving market dynamics.

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