Indigenous partnerships

Industry is working harder than ever before to maintain the trust of the people and communities with which it partners. Industry has strong heritage protection processes, continually increases its community engagement capability and constant review of operational and project plans.

Much of the land on which mining occurs is covered by native title and lands rights regimes. More than 60 per cent of operating mines are also located near Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Each community has its own unique history and local cultural, social and economic context.

As a key stakeholder in these communities, the MCA and its member companies are fostering and developing opportunities that create inter-generational health and wealth outcomes by contributing to Closing the Gap in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders disadvantage. The MCA is doing this by:

• Supporting co-design principles
• Developing the next generation of leaders
• Developing the skills and business opportunities required for future operations
• Respecting heritage and culture across the mining lifecycle.

The MCA values supporting the development, implementation and advocacy of policies and programs that enable equitable, trusted and long-term partnerships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, including Traditional Owners and native title holders.

These programs have contributed to:

• A higher proportion of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders choosing to work in mining than other sectors
• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders representing 9.7 per cent of all mining apprentices and trainees – higher than the all-industries average of 7.3 per cent
• Mining representing 48 per cent of spend with Supply Nation-registered businesses
• A strong relationship between the mining and Indigenous business sector.

There is more work to do. Industry will:

• Increase the number of Indigenous Australians in professional, trades, technical and leadership roles
• Enhance tailored work readiness programs
• Increase procurement spending with Indigenous businesses
• Promote Indigenous-owned and operated mines.