Premier Mark McGowan today congratulated BHP on the official opening of its South Flank iron ore mine.
The mine adds to BHP’s existing mine operations in the Pilbara to create one of the largest operating iron ore hubs in the world, expected to produce 145 million tonnes of iron ore each year.
A technically advanced high-quality iron ore mine, its operations integrate the latest advances in autonomous-ready fleets, digital connectivity and modular design.
BHP announced in May 2021 that the mine had successfully produced its first ore.
The ore from South Flank will supply global steel markets for the next 25 years, helping to build electricity, transport and urban infrastructure around the world.
More than $4.6 billion (US $3.6 billion) of works have been awarded for the South Flank project with 41 per cent awarded to Western Australian businesses, including 37 per cent committed to businesses in the Pilbara region.
The project included an 80 million tonnes per annum crushing and screening plant, an overland conveyor system, stockyard and train loading facilities, procurement of a new mining fleet and substantial mine development and pre-strip work.
The project created more than 9,000 jobs during construction, and is expected to create more than 600 operational roles through its life.
South Flank’s workforce is diverse and highly skilled, with 40 per cent female and 15 per cent indigenous operational staff.
As stated by Premier Mark McGowan:
“The opening of BHP’s $4.6 billion South Flank mine is an example of how Western Australia’s resources sector is planning for the future and that WA is a secure and attractive place to invest.
“From the turning of the sod with BHP and the Banjima traditional owners in 2018, I have seen the opportunities the South Flank project has delivered for Western Australia.
“The project has created, and will continue to create, hundreds of jobs for Western Australians, and work for local businesses.
“It’s pleasing to see BHP’s focus in attracting and retaining a diverse and skilled workforce.
“The South Flank project shows what is possible when Western Australian businesses, big and small, are given the opportunity to provide goods and services to large scale resources projects in the Pilbara.”
As stated by State Development, Jobs and Trade Minister Roger Cook:
“Investment driven by projects such as South Flank are essential to creating Western Australian jobs and supporting local business.
“The McGowan Government is committed to ensuring the State continues to be a secure and attractive destination for investment.
“I look forward to seeing iron ore from South Flank exported around the world for decades to come.”
As stated by Pilbara MLA Kevin Michel:
“Congratulations to BHP on this momentous occasion for South Flank.
“Having such a technically advanced and what will be known as one of the largest iron ore hubs in the world right here in central Pilbara is critical in putting us on the global stage.
“I’m keen to see BHP continue to invest in its people and operations, and ensure it keeps delivering for the Pilbara region into the future.”
