Argyle Diamonds - Case Study

The Client

Argyle Diamonds operates the world’s largest diamond mine in the remote East Kimberley region of north-western Australia. Argyle is a fully owned subsidiary of Rio Tinto. 

The Issue 

In 2004, Argyle Diamonds negotiated an Indigenous land use agreement, the Argyle Participation Agreement, with Traditional Owners, the Miriwoong and Gija people. The Agreement lays the foundation for a long-term relationship and includes a shared commitment to increase Aboriginal employment and economic participation in the region. Argyle has contracted Cooperative Change to assist it to develop part of its regional community and sustainability strategy in the region and to help fulfil its obligations under the Participation Agreement.

The Response

Cooperative Change assists Argyle in the development of its ongoing relationship with Traditional Owners.  Guidance is provided on working with the Indigenous community, government agencies and the general community to develop projects to achieve real outcomes in employment and economic development. The work includes modelling and developing pathways to employment through recruitment, job placement and retention programs. Encouraging business development and working with government service providers to build community capacity are also an integral part of the strategic approach taken.

The Outcome

Over a five year period Argyle Diamond Mine lifted its level of Indigenous employment from 5% to 25%.  Janina Gawler, principal of Cooperative Change, contributed to this achievement through negotiation of federal funding for Argyle's highly successful apprenticeship and traineeship program.