December 2008

Rio Tinto extends partnerships for the future

Rio Tinto has extended its support for local communities, recommitting to community partnership funds in New South Wales and Queensland.

The funds aim to invest in projects which enhance local businesses, academic and vocational education, personal development and the environment.

Rio Tinto has announced it will provide $3 million to support existing funds for the Hail Creek and Kestrel mines, and will rename the Blair Athol Mine fund to the Clermont Community Development Fund.

A further $3 million will underpin the Coal & Allied Community Trust, which aims to invest in local projects and community groups in the Hunter Valley.

The investments will be spread over the next three years.

"This is about maintaining our commitment to our communities," managing director Hubie van Dalsen said.

"Each fund will foster the development of skills, improve education, training, employment and economic development outcomes within local communities. This is not a grant programme, but a partnership programme, for us to work together with local community groups to develop and implement initiatives that address regional issues.

"This three year commitment allows us to build capacity, not dependency, and it is important that we take stock of the successes of the past three years and plan for the next three years."

Find out more information about our funds.