Federal government invests more than $190M in critical minerals and aluminum processing sector

BHP and Rio Tinto must defend class actions over workplace harassment after a court rejected their attempts to dismiss claims. The ruling allows former employees to proceed with most claims and have legal costs covered by the companies, according to Federal Court Judge Houda Younan.

Rio Tinto signed an agreement to acquire up to 80% of the Liamu copper-gold project in PNG from LCL Resources. The deal involves exploration funding and drilling to assess mineral potential. Initial focus is on the Dada and Ubei prospects, with promising but undrilled surface mineralization. Rio Tinto can earn 51% by spending A$6M, with further investment or resource definition required for 80%.

Rio Tinto plans to invest $1.9B in the Kangwinan bauxite project in Australia, adding 20M tons of annual production capacity by 2032. The project will replace the Andoom mine and expand the Amrun wharf to accommodate larger vessels, aiming to improve efficiency and reduce costs. Construction is set to begin in 2027, supporting over 1,300 jobs.

Rio Tinto and LCL Resources agreed to explore the Liamu copper-gold project in PNG. Rio Tinto can earn up to 80% interest by funding exploration. Initial focus is on Dada and Ubei prospects, with prior surface results showing gold and copper. LCL Resources will operate initially, with Rio Tinto having the option to take over.

Rio Tinto plans to invest $1.9bn in the Kangwinan bauxite project in Queensland, Australia, to replace aging mines and expand capacity. The project will add 20 million tons of annual production, with first output in 2029 and full production by 2032. This investment is part of Rio Tinto's strategy to secure long-term bauxite supply.

Rio Tinto has secured a first-look deal for an early-stage project in Papua New Guinea, owned by LCL Resources. The agreement could allow Rio Tinto to earn up to 80% of the project, called Liamu. The deal follows Rio Tinto's recent acquisition of the Ono project in the same region.