Explainer Series

How does Australia engage
in international critical mineral agreements?

February 2025

Adjunct Professor Ian Satchwell
Sustainable Minerals Institute, The University of Queensland.

Ian Satchwell has worked with SMI since 2011, when he became Director of the International Mining for Development Centre — a UQ-UWA initiative funded by the Australian Government to support mining governance in developing economies. He is an Adjunct Professor at UQ, Affiliate of the Global Centre for Mineral Security, and Senior Fellow at the Australian Strategic Policy Institute.

Ian advises business, government and NGOs on minerals and infrastructure policy to support investment and sustainable development. His research focuses on Australia’s global mining footprint, critical mineral supply chains, and governance frameworks. He previously held senior roles in industry bodies, consulting, and not-for-profits.