Perth, Australia. Mining giant Rio Tinto reported a record $6.7 billion USD in spending with suppliers in Western Australia in 2024—an increase of $975 million USD over the previous year—as part of its ongoing strategy to support local businesses and expand new mining developments across the Pilbara region.
The increase was driven mainly by investments in heavy mining equipment and large-scale earthworks for the $2 billion USD Western Range project, which is set to begin operations in the first half of this year.
Rio Tinto is also advancing additional projects, including the recently approved $1.8 billion USD Brockman Syncline 1 mine, aimed at sustaining iron ore production while continuing to engage local and Indigenous suppliers for long-term value creation.
Record Engagement with Indigenous and Regional Suppliers
Spending with Indigenous-owned businesses in Western Australia reached a record $500 million USD in 2024, marking a 30% increase compared to 2023. Within the $630 million USD invested in Pilbara-based businesses, about **60%—or $379 million USD—**went to Indigenous suppliers, including $330 million USD with Traditional Owner enterprises.
Rio Tinto collaborates with more than 2,400 suppliers in Western Australia each year. Since 2018, it has more than doubled its regional supplier expenditure, reinforcing its commitment to local economic growth and employment.
Celebrating Local Excellence
Rio Tinto held its third annual Supplier Recognition Awards, celebrating outstanding performance across six award categories, including WA Supplier of the Year and the Chief Executive Award.
With nearly 200 nominations submitted and 18 finalists selected, the awards spotlighted innovation, sustainability, and operational excellence among Rio Tinto’s top-performing partners.
Western Australia Premier Roger Cook presented the WA Supplier of the Year award to Winyama Contracting Group, while Rio Tinto Iron Ore Chief Executive Simon Trott honored Wabtec with the Chief Executive Award.
“We’re proud to partner with local businesses to create jobs and strengthen regional communities,” said Trott. “From the corner coffee shop to advanced manufacturers, everyone contributes to the success of our industry.”
Premier Cook added:
“Local businesses are the backbone of Western Australia’s regional economy. It’s encouraging to see Rio Tinto investing in and recognizing so many of them—including Indigenous enterprises in the Pilbara.”
2024 Supplier Award Winners
Care, Courage and Curiosity: Indiji-Corp For demonstrating Rio Tinto’s core values and commitment to safe, inclusive workplaces. Local Engagement: Gemco Rail & CRRC Qiqihar Rolling Stock Co. Ltd (QRRS) For investing in regional talent and community development. Health & Safety: McDonald Surveys For exceptional safety leadership at operational sites in WA. Environmental Sustainability: Curtin University & University of British Columbia For advancing emissions reduction and sustainable practices. Operational Excellence: Pilbara Rail Maintenance For superior performance and industry-leading productivity. Innovation Award: Bridgestone Mining Solutions For pioneering technology that enhances operational efficiency. WA Supplier of the Year: Winyama Contracting Group Recognized for excellence across multiple performance areas. Chief Executive Award: Wabtec Honored for its transformational impact on Rio Tinto’s operational and sustainability outcomes.
Source: Rio Tinto Public Affairs
Stay informed with more mining and energy news at Minener.com
