Arafura Resources Limited announced that Chris Tonkin is stepping down from the position of Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director due to the logistical strain of weekly travel from his home in Melbourne to Perth and the impact on his family and other commitments. The Board announced that Gavin Lockyer will replace Tonkin as the new Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Arafura. Lockyer joined Arafura in June 2006 as its Company Secretary and Chief Financial Officer.

He has a strong finance and operational resources background and a sound understanding of the rare earths industry and its participants. In addition, he played a key role in establishing the company's longstanding relationship with its major shareholder and strategic partner, East China Mineral Exploration and Development Bureau (ECE). The appointment will be effective from 23 July 2013 and Mr. Lockyer and Mr. Tonkin will work together to ensure that Mr. Lockyer has a smooth transition into the role.