Rio Tinto and the Nyangumarta Warrarn Aboriginal Corporation (NWAC) have signed a project agreement for the proposed Winu copper-gold mine, securing traditional owner consent and laying the framework for long-term economic and cultural collaboration in Western Australia.
Winu is set to become the first mine developed on Nyangumarta Country. The project is operated by Rio Tinto, which holds a 70 per cent stake, in a joint venture with Sumitomo Metal Mining Co., which holds the remaining 30 per cent.
Building on a preliminary planning pact signed in 2023, the co-designed agreement establishes how traditional owners and the mining company will work together.
It embeds Nyangumarta knowledge, priorities, and cultural perspectives into ongoing planning to minimise impacts on Aboriginal heritage and the surrounding environment.
Through the deal, the Nyangumarta People have given formal consent for the mine and its supporting infrastructure. The venture still faces final regulatory approvals and a formal investment decision, but remains Rio Tinto’s flagship greenfield copper initiative, aiming for first copper production by 2030.
Nyangumarta Elder Margaret (Nyaparu) Rose said the decision followed more than five years of careful consultation.
“Making sure our Country and culture are looked after has been at the heart of every conversation we’ve had about Winu,” Rose said.
“The outcome of yesterday’s signing means we will have the means and resources to safeguard Country and provide opportunities for our people, both now and in the future.”
Elder Charlie Wright noted the agreement guarantees Traditional Owners “a seat at the table for the life of the project”, ensuring local businesses and young community members benefit directly through training, employment, and commercial opportunities.
Rio Tinto Copper CEO Katie Jackson welcomed the agreement, thanking the Nyangumarta People for their partnership and stating that the agreement formalises an ongoing responsibility to listen and act with respect.
“It is not the conclusion of that work, and for Rio Tinto it reflects our ongoing responsibility to listen, to act with respect and to honour the commitments we have made.”
