Rio Tinto will cut alumina output at its Queensland refinery by 40% starting Oct 2026 to extend its life to 2035.

Rio Tinto will cut alumina production at its Yarwun refinery in Queensland by 40% starting October 2026, reducing output by 1.2 million tonnes annually and affecting about 180 jobs. The move aims to extend the facility’s life to 2035 by delaying the expected 2031 capacity limit of its tailings dam, citing high costs for a new dam as a key factor. The company says the decision is based on economic viability, not government policy, and is exploring technical solutions like hydrogen power and dry tailings tech. Bauxite mines and aluminium smelters will continue operating at full capacity with no impact on customers. Redeployment opportunities are being offered within Rio Tinto’s Queensland operations.