Kariyarra Aboriginal Corporation is working to drive positive outcomes for Traditional Owners after a major De Grey Mining Pilbara gold project received a boost by way of a $150 million loan.
Federal Minister for Resources and Northern Australia, Madeline King, made the announcement of support from the government's Northern Australian Infrastructure Facility late August in Karratha.
As a condition of NAIF's funding, De Grey has committed to engaging closely with the Traditional Owners in the region to pursue positive outcomes for the community.
The company says the Hemi Gold Project is set to deliver significant benefits to the local community - including more than 1,700 jobs during construction and operation.
Located 86km south of Port Hedland, the Project is planned to become one of Australia's largest gold mining operations.
Ms King said the investment was another example of how the government was delivering for communities in northern Australia.
"This project will boost economic and social outcomes for people living and working in the Pilbara," the minister said.
"This investment will help diversify the local economy, which is currently highly concentrated around our successful iron ore and gas industries.
"In addition to creating new job opportunities, the project will have significant flow-on benefits locally and attract further investment in community and public infrastructure. We're committed to investing in the north – because a strong north means a strong Australia."
NAIF's loan will support the development of mining and processing facilities and related critical infrastructure, including accommodation and utilities.
Special Envoy for Northern Australia, top end MP Luke Gosling , welcomed the investment decision.
"This funding is part of more than $4.5 billion committed by the Australian Government through NAIF to spur development across a range of industries in the north," Mr Gosling said.
"This critical investment is unlocking opportunities for local communities and driving growth that benefits all Australians."
The Hemi Gold Project adds to NAIF's growing portfolio of investments in resources projects across northern Australia, and brings NAIF's total investment in Western Australian projects to more than $1.9 billion.