Australia is an in-demand mineral resources partner

Copper, lithium, nickel, cobalt, manganese and rare earths are currently in particular demand in Germany and Europe, as the number of new gigafactories being built in Europe increases.
If Europe wishes to reduce its dependence on China it will require mineral resources from Australia, Canada, Brazil or African countries. 

https://www.deutschland.de/en/topic/business/mineral-resource-cooperation-with-australia-partner-for-germany