Rio Tinto has awarded global services provider Sodexo a contract to manage its network of fly-in, fly-out (FIFO) accommodation villages, residential properties, and operational sites across Western Australia’s resource-rich Pilbara region.
The seven-year agreement, which includes an option to extend for a further three years, is set to commence in June. The contract follows a highly competitive global partner selection process and succeeds a prior 10-year partnership between the two companies.
Under the deal, Sodexo will oversee the maintenance and refurbishment of 2,900 residential houses and upwards of 19,000 FIFO rooms scattered across 25 remote villages.
The scope of work covers a massive logistics footprint: on an annual basis, Sodexo serves approximately 14 million meals, coordinates three million worker movements, and manages aerodromes servicing more than 12,000 flights.
The co-designed contract places a heavy emphasis on safety, enhanced worker experience, and local procurement. It outlines strict commitments to supporting Indigenous employment and engaging local suppliers, promising tangible economic flow-on effects for Pilbara Traditional Owners and regional communities.
Rio Tinto Iron Ore Managing Director Rail, Port and Services Chris Osborn said: “Ensuring the more than 10,000 people who stay in our villages each night, as well as the thousands in Rio Tinto housing across the Pilbara, feel safe, have access to all the amenities they need and can sleep soundly at night, is vital to our operations.
“Importantly, employee experience and local procurement are embedded into the contract, ensuring this partnership delivers shared benefits for our people and for local and Indigenous businesses, as well as communities across the Pilbara.”
Sodexo will also maintain vital community infrastructure across town hubs like Tom Price, Paraburdoo, Dampier, Wickham, and Pannawonica, managing local swimming pools, sporting ovals, and retail shops.
The contract secures roughly 2,500 Sodexo jobs across Western Australia, including 2,250 positions based directly in the Pilbara.
Sodexo Australia Managing Director Keith Weston said: “Sodexo’s strategic and singular focus on the Australian energy and resources sector has allowed us to hone our offerings and deliver integrated facilities management services that create a supportive environment for those working away from home.
“Every aspect of our operation, from the warm welcome at check-in to the meals we serve and the facilities we care for, is purposefully designed to meet the unique challenges of remote, resource-based environments.”
