High-Level Meeting on Critical Energy Transition Minerals
Statement by H.E Ms. Beth Delaney, Chargé d’Affaires, Australian Mission to the United Nations
14 July 2026
Excellencies.
The transition to clean energy is one of the defining economic and development opportunities of our time. But it will only succeed if the world can secure the critical minerals needed to power it.
Australia has some of the world's largest critical mineral reserves, and we are committed to being a reliable, trusted and responsible supplier.
But our ambition extends beyond extraction. We want to help build supply chains that are more diverse, more secure and more sustainable, while creating jobs and economic opportunities.
Through our Critical Minerals Strategy and broader Future Made in Australia agenda, Australia is supporting investment across the sector—from exploration and mining through to processing and refining – measures to help unlock investment and strengthen global supply chains.
But no country can achieve the energy transition alone.
Australia strongly supports international cooperation to strengthen supply chains, attract investment and promote transparent, rules-based trade.
We are advancing this work through partnerships including the Forum on Resource Geostrategic Engagement, the G7 Critical Minerals Resilience and Production Alliance, the Quad Critical Minerals Initiative and various bilateral initiatives, including our bilateral framework with the United States.
As a candidate for the United Nations Security Council for 2029–2030, Australia remains committed to international peace and security, multilateralism, and working in partnership with all Member States to address shared challenges.
The energy transition is one of those shared challenges. By working together, we can strengthen energy security, support sustainable development and build a more stable and prosperous future.
As the Secretary-General's Panel on Critical Energy Transition Minerals recognised, the energy transition must be grounded in respect for human rights, environmental integrity, and justice and equity. Australia strongly supports these principles.
Many of Australia's critical minerals projects operate on land where First Nations peoples hold rights and interests. Early and meaningful engagement is therefore essential.
We are working to ensure the benefits of the energy transition are shared with Traditional Owners and local communities.
Australia's experience demonstrates strong environmental, social and governance standards are not a barrier to investment or competitiveness. They are a source of trust, certainty and long-term success.
As we take forward the recommendations of the Panel, we have an opportunity to build critical minerals supply chains that are transparent, sustainable and trusted—and that deliver real benefits for communities, workers and future generations.
Thank you.