Liontown Resources has officially begun underground production at its Kathleen Valley operation in Western Australia, marking a historic milestone as Australia’s first underground lithium mine. The initial blast occurred at the Mt Mann orebody, initiating the transition from open pit to underground mining, which will continue through the 2025–26 financial year (FY26). This development is expected to bring significant advantages to lithium extraction in Australia.
The underground mining method is anticipated to provide cleaner ore extraction by reducing waste contamination, supporting higher lithium oxide (Li₂O) recoveries, and improving ore fragmentation for optimized throughput. During the March quarter, Liontown conducted underground ore trials to determine optimal plant performance settings. The first blast extracted 1,500 tonnes of ore as part of an initial stope designed to deliver 12,000 tonnes—equivalent to two days of plant production. The results have reinforced Liontown’s confidence in transitioning fully to underground operations.
Liontown’s managing director and CEO, Tony Ottaviano, praised the achievement, attributing it to advanced planning, team dedication, and collaboration with mining partner Byrnecut. “The successful commencement of underground stoping at our Kathleen Valley Lithium Operation on schedule is a proud milestone for Liontown,” Ottaviano said. The company plans to advance the decline further, open additional working areas, and progressively ramp up underground operations.
By FY26’s end, Liontown aims for the mill to be supplied exclusively by high-margin ore from underground volumes. This strategic focus is expected to maximize value and support long-term operational efficiency. Kathleen Valley’s underground operations will play a pivotal role in meeting global demand for lithium as electrification accelerates worldwide.
