Premier Mark McGowan today welcomed a decision by Rio Tinto to invest $3.5 billion in the Koodaideri mine and rail project in the Pilbara region.
Commencing in 2019 subject to government and environmental approvals, the project is expected to create more than 2,000 jobs during the construction phase and a further 600 ongoing jobs once operational.
WA has a skilled workforce and a large array of suppliers of various goods and services, both in the Pilbara and across the State, who can contribute to this important project.
The McGowan Labor Government is committed to creating and securing jobs for Western Australians, and will continue to work with Rio Tinto to maximise opportunities for more local content and local businesses.
As noted by Premier Mark McGowan:
“This new investment demonstrates confidence is returning to the Western Australian economy, and new jobs are being created.
“There are very positive signs but we will continue to work hard to get our State back on track.
“My Government will continue to work with the State’s resources industry to ensure local jobs are maximised on new projects.
“I congratulate Rio Tinto on investing in this Pilbara project and for having a strong focus on employing WA workers and WA businesses.
“With more than 2,000 construction jobs expected to be created and a further 600 ongoing jobs once the project is operational, this is a big boost for the WA economy and welcome news for WA workers.
“My Government is committed to implementing our Plan for Jobs and diversifying the economy.”
