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Highlights
Regional investment expanded across Western Australia through community, training and Indigenous partnerships.
Local supplier spending increased, including allocations to Indigenous-owned enterprises.
Workforce development support strengthened through long-term commitments.HP has outlined a major uplift in community and development spending across Western Australia in its latest Community Development Report.
BHP expands Western Australia investment through community partnerships, Indigenous support, local procurement, training and future projects, aligning with broader resource sector growth reflected in the ASX200.
The company’s commitment aligns with broader nationwide resource sector trends reflected within the ASX200, where large-scale miners continue to influence employment, capability and regional investment.
A significant share of BHP’s investment supported local suppliers, including contributions directed to Indigenous-owned businesses.
Training and capability programs active across the state have helped build long-term employment pathways since their launch more than a decade ago.
BHP’s Western Australian Iron Ore operations remain core to regional activity, supporting thousands of workers and underpinning continued production across Pilbara, Goldfields and Kwinana.
Community Programs Reinforced Through Long-Term Partnerships
Tim Day, president of Western Australian Iron Ore, emphasised that long-term progress stems from coordinated efforts between communities, governments and industry.
One example is the Pilbara Safe Spaces Program, providing supervised environments, youth engagement pathways and support services in Port Hedland and Newman.
The initiative focuses on safety, life-skills development, education pathways and improved access to community services.
BHP also works with Women’s Legal Service WA, a free trauma-informed legal service for women across Newman and Port Hedland.
Originally launched as a pilot, it now supports improved safety and wellbeing outcomes for both Indigenous and non-Indigenous women.
Further community support is delivered through the Newman Community Centre, a hub offering mental health services, support for new parents and a range of inclusive events.
BHP funds community health support programs and early-intervention services delivered through on-site health professionals.
Through the Community Grants Program, BHP also funds grassroots projects such as safety upgrades, community facility improvements and local training initiatives.
Workforce Demand Rising Across Western Australia
A 2025–2030 workforce outlook from the Australian Resources and Energy Employer Association highlights Western Australia as the region with the largest expected project pipeline.
This reinforces the importance of regional capability development.
BHP has invested in long-term skills development, including support for apprenticeships and training in the Goldfields.
Vice President of Western Australia Nickel Annabelle Blom said the focus is to strengthen local career pathways, retain talent and address skilled labour shortages.
The company has previously established the WA Nickel Community Fund to help support communities during operational adjustments across Western Australia Nickel.
Industrial Relations Developments Under Review
A recent Fair Work Commission ruling supports updated remuneration for Central Queensland coal workers.
BHP is reviewing the decision, noting it will comply with any final orders and acknowledging the wider operational implications.
