Rio Tinto to invest in Brockman mine extension
io Tinto will invest US$1.8 billion to develop the Brockman Syncline 1 mine project (BS1), extending the life of the Brockman region in the West Pilbara of Western Australia and sustaining production from the company’s world class iron ore operations.
The project has now received all necessary State and Federal Government approvals, and has been developed in consultation with the Puutu Kunti Kurrama and Pinikura (PKKP) Traditional Owners and the Muntulgura Guruma Traditional Owners.
Rio Tinto Iron Ore Chief Executive, Simon Trott, said:
“Brockman 4 produced 43 million t of iron ore in 2024. Securing this project extends the life of the Brockman hub. This is good for our business, good for Western Australia, and good for the Australian economy.
“Rio Tinto has been mining iron ore in the Pilbara for almost six decades, and our tranche of new mines will ensure we can continue to supply the globe’s ongoing need for iron ore for decades to come.”
BS1 is a large-scale investment within the Brockman region, which encompasses Brockman 4 and Greater Nammuldi. It will have capacity to process up to 34 million t/y of iron ore, leveraging existing plants.
First ore is now scheduled for 2027, having previously been anticipated in 2028.
Construction of the project begins this year and includes a new primary crusher and overland conveyor, a non-process infrastructure precinct, and a temporary camp for construction workers.
About 1000 jobs will be created during construction, and once operational, BS1 will sustain a workforce of about 600.
BS1 is one of a tranche of replacement projects, with total annual capacity of approximately 130 million t/y, that underpin Rio Tinto’s ongoing commitment to the Pilbara.
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