Push for Australia to extract helium as Iran war impacts global supply
The ongoing conflict in the Middle East has significantly impacted the global helium supply, with one-third of it affected by recent missile strikes. Experts are advocating for Australia to increase its helium extraction capabilities, as the country has potential reserves linked to its natural gas industry. There are calls to classify helium as a critical mineral to support industry expansion and mitigate supply issues.
- ▪The Middle East conflict has threatened one-third of the global helium supply.
- ▪Australia has potential helium reserves associated with its natural gas extraction.
- ▪Helium is essential for various technologies, including microchip production and MRI machines.
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Push for Australia to extract helium gas as Middle East war impacts global supplyBy business reporter Alison BranleyTopic:Natural ResourcesMon 18 May 2026 at 4:54amMon 18 May 2026 at 4:54amMon 18 May 2026 at 4:54amHelium is used for more than just party balloons. (iStock: Multicoloured balloons against blue sky, simonkr, CC by iStock)In short:The conflict in the Middle East has threatened one-third of the global helium supply.It can be a by-product of liquid natural gas (LNG) extraction and experts say there is potential for Australian exports.What's next?There are calls for helium to be added to the critical minerals list to help support industry expansion.abc.net.au/news/push-for-austraila-to-extract-helium-as-iran-war-impacts-supply/106666710Link copiedShareShare articleFor most…
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