The Chamber of Minerals and Energy of Western Australia (CME) today welcomed the commitment by Rio Tinto to continue to work closely with the Puutu Kunti Kurrama and Pinikura People (PKKP) on cultural heritage matters, including reviewing plans for sites in the Juukan Gorge area.
CME Chief Executive Paul Everingham said the resources sector in Western Australia remains committed to strong relationships with Traditional Owners.
"Many of our members have formed comprehensive and mutually agreed partnership agreements with local Indigenous groups for many years, and work hard to maintain these positive relationships.
"I know Rio Tinto places a lot of value on its longstanding relationship with the PKKP, which has led to many beneficial outcomes, such as the preservation of thousands of significant cultural heritage artefacts.
"CME and its members remain committed to working with Government towards reforms to the Aboriginal Heritage Act that will provide positive, mutually-beneficial outcomes for both industry and Indigenous Australians."
