AS executive officer of Kuruma Marthudunera (KML) and a traditional landowner, Jason Masters plays a big role in the management, governance and distribution of financial benefits arising from the negotiation between mining companies and the Kuruma Marthudunera people. The traditional country of Kuruma Marthudunera people in the west Pilbara has rich deposits of iron ore, making it of interest to mining companies. Along with training and education opportunities, KML’s aim is to run an efficient organisation while retaining Aboriginal lore and culture.
Holding an associate degree in Indigenous Community Management and Development from Curtin University, Mr Masters began his career as agreement implementation adviser for Rio Tinto, ensuring the company met its obligations within native title agreements.
Mr Masters was born and raised in the Pilbara and is the first traditional owner in the Pilbara to successfully manage a trustee company on behalf of his own people. Through comprehensive and detailed engagement with the community he has set up a successful school holiday program for the Roebourne community, a senior support program and a law and culture program.
