The Yinhawangka People have taken a step towards greater control over activities on their lands after signing an interim modernised agreement (IMA) with Rio Tinto.
Both parties described the deal as the beginning of a new era of co-management on Yinhawangka Country.
The agreement builds on the pair's 2013 participation agreement and establishes a framework for how the two groups will work together while a full modernised agreement is likely developed in 2026, which Rio Tinto says will govern how the company operates on Yinhawangka Country long term.
An expanded role for Yinhawangka decision-making, especially concerning cultural heritage protection, environmental management and long-term planning for mining operations, was central to the new arrangement.
The IMA enshrines "early and meaningful" involvement of Yinhawangka representatives in mine planning, with dedicated funding to support their participation. It also introduces formal mechanisms for raising concerns about Country, culture and the environment at any stage of a project, and establishes a joint committee where both parties collaborate on new proposals and major operational changes.
Yinhawangka Aboriginal Corporation board chairwoman Robyn Hayden (née Tommy) said mining on their Country always involved hard decisions, with Yinhawangka People always at the centre of those.
"This agreement with Rio Tinto reflects both parties' commitment to working in partnership, strengthening respectful communication, and ensuring Yinhawangka voices are heard," she said.
"It creates opportunities for both our current and future generations, supporting a stronger and more sustainable future for both our People and our Country."
Rio Tinto Iron Ore CEO Matthew Holcz said the focus on Indigenous authority and cultural responsibility was reflective of the company's position, having earlier this month signed an updated Native Title agreement with Karlka Nyiyaparli Aboriginal Corporation, and a groundbreaking co-management agreement with PKKP in June.
"Working alongside the Yinhawangka People to co-develop this Interim Modernised Agreement is an important step in our ongoing partnership," Mr Holcz said.
"It will allow us to keep learning from Yinhawangka knowledge and perspectives as we work towards a fully modernised agreement, based on respect, transparency and shared responsibility.
"We thank the Yinhawangka People for their continued leadership and guidance, as we work together to strengthen our partnership."
The interim agreement is legally binding and intended as a foundation for the more comprehensive arrangement due next year, solidifying a long-term governance framework rooted in Yinhawangka Country, culture and community priorities.
