Mine over matter: Recent mining agreements and job outcomes in the remote top end

Since mining commenced in Australia, miners have continuously and repeatedly fallen off the wagon. With the prime focus being on commercial prosperity, many promises are made but few are kept. So what does it take now, in the 21st century, to stay on the wagon? 

In 2011 Western Desert Resources Limited (WDR), a small explorer, commenced its journey to development and production in late 2013 of its iron ore project in the remote Roper and Gulf of Carpentaria regions - in record time for a bulk commodity miner in Australia.

Close by, other new mines are also beginning operations.

The Northern Land Council (NLC) has negotiated new agreements for these mine and infrastructure developments, and is now focused on employment and training outcomes for local people to help these miners “stay on the wagon” and not revert to decades of repetitive history.