Rio Tinto secures Aboriginal cooperation on newest copper project Winu
Diversified miner Rio Tinto has signed a project agreement with the Nyangumarta Warrarn Aboriginal Corporation (NWAC) which secures a long-term partnership for the development of the Winu copper/gold mine, in Western Australia.
Rio is working to get to first copper production from this 70%-owned project by 2030, together with Sumitomo Metal Mining, pending final regulatory approvals and a final investment decision.
The project agreement with NWAC builds on a project planning agreement signed in 2023, which now sets out how Nyangumarta People can work together with Rio to inform ongoing planning and implementation of activities in the area, including how to avoid impacts of the mine on the environmental and Aboriginal cultural heritage.
Winu is anticipated to be the first mine developed on Nyangumarta Country, creating new pathways to training, employment and business participation.
Winu is Rio Tinto's most advanced near-term greenfield copper project and an important part of the company's strategy to grow its copper portfolio.
