A phosphate mine lease on Christmas Island has been extended by 21 years by the Australian government.
In a statement, Phosphate Resources said the mining lease has been renewed until 27 June, 2034. It covers 1755hectares.
The company began operations on Christmas Island in 1990. AAP reports it is confident it has enough phosphate to keep the project going for another decade.
A spokesman also said the company may again apply for an additional 256 hectares of land on the island, with a view to extending its operations. A previous application was rejected.
The mine has 155 full-time employees.
