Karlka Nyiyaparli Aboriginal Corporation (KNAC) and Rio Tinto have formalised an updated Native Title Agreement designed to reshape how the two parties work together on bauxite mining activities across Nyiyaparli Country, delivering hassle-free processes and stronger cultural protections.
The revised agreement, signed on November 28, is the result of several years of collaborative work. KNAC’s Agreement Review Committee, backed by Common Law Holders, led the process, drawing on on-Country consultations and heritage input to ensure that Nyiyaparli perspectives guided every stage of the review. According to both organisations, the outcome reflects the aspirations of the community and the priority placed on safeguarding the Country.
Don't miss out- Buyers are looking for your products on our B2B platform
Much of Rio Tinto’s existing Hope Downs operations, as well as the proposed Rhodes Ridge development, sit within Nyiyaparli Country. The refreshed agreement builds on the foundations laid in 2011, when the first Native Title Agreement between the Nyiyaparli People and Rio Tinto was established.
The updated framework introduces strengthened cultural heritage and environmental protections and sets out earlier and more consistent consultation requirements for future project discussions. It also aims to improve transparency around decision-making tied to mining activity.
Read More: Rio Tinto cuts Yarwun output by 40% as waste capacity tightens, extending operations to 2035
A significant focus of the new agreement is the long-term social and economic benefit of the Nyiyaparli People. Provisions support employment pathways, training opportunities and business development, while governance measures have been redesigned to better reflect Nyiyaparli cultural and corporate values.
KNAC Chairperson Leonard Michael Stream said the collaborative effort had produced an outcome the community could stand behind. “We appreciate working with Rio over the last three years to deliver a better deal for Nyiyaparli Country and for Nyiyaparli People that works for us both,” he said.
Rio Tinto Iron Ore Chief Executive Matthew Holcz acknowledged the contribution of KNAC and community representatives throughout the review. “We are grateful for the time, guidance, cultural knowledge and technical expertise shared by Nyiyaparli and Karlka Nyiyaparli Aboriginal Corporation Registered Native Title Body Corporate as we worked to jointly develop this updated agreement,” he said. Holcz added that the strengthened processes would support “clearer processes that respect Country and support transparency in decision-making.”
The agreement now sets the framework for how the two parties will continue working together, with both emphasising that the changes mark a step toward a more transparent and enduring partnership.
Don't miss out- Buyers are looking for your products on our B2B platform
Responses
