Australian Pacific Coal (ASX:AQC) funding announcement

Australian Pacific Coal Limited (ASX:AQC) has announced the full funding of the Dartbrook JV through an increased Senior Debt Facility from US$60 million to US$90 million and a new A$20 million Junior Debt Facility, with AQC funding 50%. The company has also launched a A$20.0 million Equity Raising to fund its share of the Junior Debt Facility and provide additional working capital.

Executive commentary on funding and future prospects

This funding package and the decision by Vitol to upsize the Senior Debt Facility by US$30 million to encompass Dartbrook's working capital requirements is a huge vote of confidence in the Dartbrook project. We acknowledge and appreciate the strong support provided by our shareholders, particularly Trepang, and by Vitol, and will continue our efforts to bring Dartbrook back into commercial production before the end of the year. With this new funding package in place, the Dartbrook project is expected to be fully funded through to commercial production and ramp-up. The Dartbrook mine is an extraordinary asset with significant potential to generate value for the community, our shareholders and our workforce for years to come. The high-quality specs of the Dartbrook product remain in high demand globally and this is the right time to bring this mine back to life.

Summary of funding and outlook

Australian Pacific Coal Limited (ASX:AQC) has successfully secured funding for the Dartbrook project, with an increased Senior Debt Facility and a new Junior Debt Facility. The company has also launched an Equity Raising to fund its share of the Junior Debt Facility and provide additional working capital. The funding package and Equity Raising are expected to fully fund the Dartbrook project through to commercial production and ramp-up. The company's Managing Director & CEO, Ms Ayten Saridas, expressed confidence in the project's potential to generate value for the community, shareholders, and the workforce. The high-quality product's continued demand globally positions the Dartbrook mine for a successful resurgence.