Glencore’s Murrin Murrin Operations (MMO) and the Wangkatja Tjungula Aboriginal Corporation (WTAC) have signed landmark Native Title Agreement, establishing a long-term partnership built on mutual respect and cooperation.
WTAC serves as the Registered Native Title Body Corporate for the Nyalpa Pirniku people, representing their native title interests across roughly 30,900 square kilometres in Western Australia’s northeastern Goldfields region, where the major mining operations are located.
The new agreement marks a significant milestone for both organisations. It outlines a structured framework to protect local cultural heritage, lands, and waters, while ensuring the Nyalpa Pirniku community secures direct socio-economic benefits.
These outcomes include compensation entitlements, specialised employment pathways, and priority contracting opportunities for Indigenous businesses.
Additionally, the agreement introduces clear and transparent consultation processes, ensuring meaningful engagement regarding ongoing operations on Traditional Owners’ land.
Murrin Murrin Operations General Manager Adrian Herbert said: “This agreement reflects our shared commitment to working in genuine partnership with WTAC.
“Together, we aim to support WTAC’s vision of caring for Country while creating lasting opportunities that improve the social and economic wellbeing of Nyalpa Pirniku people.”
WTAC Chairman David Canning echoed these sentiments, describing the agreement as an important step forward that formally recognises the Nyalpa Pirniku people’s enduring connection to Country.
“WTAC acknowledges the constructive working relationship that has developed with Glencore and the Murrin Murrin Operations team throughout this process,” Canning said.
“We look forward to working with Murrin Murrin Operations in a way that protects our culture, strengthens our community, and delivers opportunities for future generations.”
Operating since 1998 and wholly owned by Glencore, Murrin Murrin is Australia’s largest producer of nickel and cobalt.
The site employs approximately 1,300 people, including contractors.
In 2024 alone, the operation contributed about AU$1 billion to the state and national economies through wages, taxes, royalties.
