Canadian researchers are actively engaged in the development of novel cast, wrought and composite materials that are based on Mg. An overview is provided of Canadian research projects for new applications of Mg alloys that are targeted to the growing needs of the automotive sector. The research work described is funded primarily through two federal programs: the Canadian Lightweight Materials Research Initiative, and the Materials and Manufacturing Theme of the AUTO21 Network of Centres of Excellence. It includes work on mechanical and corrosion performance of high-pressure die castings, gravity and low pressure castings using permanent and sand molds, sheet Mg development and magnesium matrix composites. The metallurgical research facilities at the CANMET Materials Technology Laboratory are featured.