Rio Tinto today announced it is committing $6 million towards community partnerships over the next three years as it was confirmed that Janet Holmes à Court and Fred Chaney would join its WA Future Fund Board.
Rio Tinto today announced it is committing $6 million towards community partnerships over the next three years as it was confirmed that Janet Holmes à Court and Fred Chaney would join its WA Future Fund Board.
Detailing the Fund's strategic direction for the next three years, Rio Tinto Iron Ore's Chief Executive Officer Sam Walsh said; "The Rio Tinto WA Future Fund is a leader in corporate social responsibility. Our partnering approach has been ground-breaking and we are pleased to strengthen our commitment in this way.
"I firmly believe that the greatest community benefit is generated if we run our operations efficiently and responsibly. The importance of this cannot be understated particularly if you consider, in the Pilbara alone, we are in daily contact with more than 60 per cent of the region's population.
"Going above and beyond our day to day involvement is at the heart of our partnership approach and something I believe we do well. We see our business as a contributor to the future of this State, and the Fund is an important vehicle to help create a more sustainable WA."
Mr Walsh also welcomed Janet Holmes à Court and Fred Chaney who join current Board members Tony Howarth and Kerry Sanderson. Their role will be to represent the community and guide the strategic direction of the Fund.
Commenting on the appointments Mr Walsh said; "I greatly value the wisdom of the Future Fund Board and I view our Board as a partnership in its own right. I am very pleased to welcome Janet and Fred and thank Tony and Kerry for their continuing involvement.
"I think it is a particular strength of the WA Future Fund that we have independent Board members who are actively involved in our decisions. "
In response Mrs Holmes à Court said; "I admire Rio Tinto's approach to its community responsibilities and am honoured to be invited to help Rio Tinto continue making a difference in this area."
Fred Chaney who has long been associated with Aboriginal reconciliation is "very pleased to be able to take an active role and be an advocate for a wide number of community groups alongside Rio Tinto."
Since its launch in 2001, the WA Future Fund has committed more than $10 million in funding and has attracted a further $15 million across 34 partnerships.
The Fund is a vehicle for all Rio Tinto businesses in WA including Argyle Diamonds, Pilbara Iron, Dampier Salt, HIsmelt, Luzenac, Exploration and Expansion Projects, to contribute to the sustainable development of the State.
