Movement in the Resources Community Investment Initiative
The WA Premier’s Office announced the appointment of Reg Howard-Smith as the inaugural chair of the Resources Community Investment Initiative RCII Advisory Committee.
“I welcome Reg Howard-Smith’s appointment as the inaugural chair of the RCCI Advisory Committee – his extensive experience in both the resources industry and working with government will help to ensure this initiative is a success,” said WA Premier Mark McGowan, commenting on the appointment.
The RCII, which aims to facilitate investment from the resources industry in iconic infrastructure projects and community initiatives across WA, has already received commitments from foundation partners.
Premier McGowan says significant commitments have been made by the mining majors.
“The foundation partners have already committed a total of $750m, which is made up of contributions from Rio Tinto ($250m), BHP ($250m), Hancock Prospecting, Roy Hill and Atlas Iron ($100m), Woodside Energy ($50m), Chevron Australia ($50m) and Mineral Resources ($50m),” he said.
This funding will be utilised to invest in projects that leave a lasting legacy for WA.
Premier McGowan mentioned some of the initial pipeline projects, including the Aboriginal Cultural Centre, Perth Zoo Master Plan, Remote Aboriginal Communities Fund, Perth Concert Hall redevelopment, expansion of Ronald McDonald House and additional contributions to Telethon.
The WA Premier’s Office has launched the Expression of Interest (EOI) process, allowing contributing companies to indicate their interest in making financial contributions to specific projects.
“The Expression of Interest process launched today gets the ball rolling on negotiations with the sector to match contributions to the iconic RCII projects as well as projects that will provide long-term social and economic benefits in the communities that resources companies operate in,” stated Premier McGowan.
Furthermore, the Premier encouraged other resource companies to participate in the RCII, with additional contributions already pledged.
He expressed confidence that more companies would join the initiative.
“I am confident that other WA resources companies will join this worthwhile initiative,” said Premier McGowan.
“Together, we can improve the lives of Western Australians and make our State a better place to live for many years to come.”
The initiative’s foundation partners have already committed substantial funding to invest in iconic projects that benefit WA.
The appointment of the RCII Advisory Committee, including Reg Howard-Smith as the chair, and the launch of the EOI process demonstrate the commitment of both the government and resource companies to creating lasting social and economic benefits for communities across the state.
