The Puutu Kunti Kurrama and Pinikura (PKKP) people have approved a new set of agreements with Fortescue following a native title authorization meeting in Karratha.
The agreements replace the original 2010 Land Access Agreement and introduce a new Native Title Agreement and a Co-Management Agreement. According to the parties, the negotiations took three years to complete and were designed to strengthen collaboration between Fortescue and PKKP Traditional Owners.
The agreements include enhanced protections for Country and cultural heritage, provisions linked to Fortescue’s decarbonization initiatives, and an updated framework for mining-related benefits.
A key feature is a mining fleet hire arrangement that will allow PKKP to own and lease mining equipment, including haul trucks and electric excavators, to Fortescue. The initiative is intended to create long-term economic opportunities and support business development within the PKKP community.
The Co-Management Agreement establishes a framework for collaboration throughout mining operations, including consultation on heritage matters and mine planning. It also includes measures aimed at protecting culturally significant sites.
Representatives from both Fortescue and PKKP said the agreements reflect a shared commitment to economic participation, heritage protection, and long-term partnership.
Why it matters for green steel: The agreements highlight the growing role of Traditional Owners in the planning and management of major mining operations. They also demonstrate how mining companies are increasingly incorporating heritage protection, economic participation, and community engagement into long-term project development. For the green iron and mining sectors, such agreements can help strengthen stakeholder relationships and support responsible resource development.