Residents of Greenbushes say a proposal by Talison Lithium to provide a free car wash does little to solve persistent dust problems linked to the nearby Greenbushes Mine. The mine, located about 240 kilometres south of Perth, is Australia’s oldest and largest lithium operation and supplies nearly 20 per cent of the world’s hard-rock lithium used in battery production and the clean energy transition. Residents say dust from blasting, haul roads and mining operations regularly coats homes, vehicles and outdoor furniture, with some reporting coughing, watering eyes and other health concerns.

While many welcomed the idea of a complimentary car wash, they argued it highlights Talison’s acknowledgment of the issue rather than offering a meaningful solution. Talison said the car wash proposal was first suggested by residents and remains in the planning stage. The company also noted it exceeded dust limits 12 times during the 2024–25 reporting period but said no further exceedances had occurred since.

Community members continue to call for stronger dust controls and long-term measures to reduce the impact of mining activity on the historic South West town.