As global jurisdictions such as the USA and Europe move aggressively toward ‘metal-centric’ resource security, Australia faces a critical juncture in its industrial evolution. We ask the question, as a country are we making the best use of our mineral resources? Are we to continue exporting low value concentrates or should we be adopting a more integrated broader strategic approach to industry development? Rather than relying on individual companies to make the quantum leap of taking the invention of new technologies from the mine gate to the international market, we should be building capacity that supports this difficult and complex step. Increase the possibilities of success by further developing the value chain and more fully utilising our metallurgical capabilities and expertise. To facilitate the downstream pyrometallurgical processing of complex primary and secondary feedstocks, a research program on the development of the comprehensive 20-component multiphase thermodynamic database (Cu-Pb-Zn-Fe-Ca-Al-Mg-Si-S-O-As-Sn-Sb-Bi-Ag-Au-Ni-Co Cr-Na) is undertaken at Pyrosearch, The University of Queensland, supported by consortia or major international metallurgical companies. This tool predicts the partitioning of chemical elements across complex gas-slag-matte-speiss-metal-salt-solids systems. It optimises the operating conditions of individual high-temperature units by integrating mass and energy balances with physicochemical property calculations. The models are refined using a continuous stream of data generated through targeted, systematic, and laboratory-controlled experimentation. By providing precise predictive capabilities, the project enhances industry confidence in the domestic integration of complex primary and recycled materials. Aligned with the Australia National Interest Framework, this research facilitates the downstream processing of complex concentrates, mine tailings, and electronic waste. By transitioning from empirical methods to innovative, high-fidelity modelling, Australia can boost the competitiveness of its mineral-to-metal value chain, ensuring a sustainable and secure supply of critical metals independent of current geopolitical constraints.