Gold Fields, in partnership with the Ngadju Native Title Aboriginal Corporation RNTBC, has officially announced the signing of a groundbreaking Native Title Agreement, marking a new era of collaboration and mutual respect.
The Ngadju Native Title Aboriginal Corporation (NNTAC) serves as the representative body for the Ngadju People, who hold Native Title over an expansive area of 102,000km² in Western Australia’s Goldfields region. This area includes the location of Gold Fields’ St Ives gold mine in Kambalda. The Ngadju People, recognised as the traditional custodians of this land surrounding Norseman, stand to benefit significantly from this landmark agreement.
Following two years of dedicated and constructive negotiations, the agreement is built on a shared commitment to an enduring, transparent relationship. It promises to deliver substantial benefits to the Ngadju People, including compensation payments and various initiatives. Notably, the agreement includes a considerable initial payment acknowledging the historical mining activities on Ngadju lands.
A pivotal aspect of the agreement is the focus on protecting and managing cultural heritage. Gold Fields and NNTAC have agreed to engage in collaborative cultural awareness initiatives aimed at fostering a deeper understanding and respect for Ngadju lands and culture among the St Ives workforce.
Gold Fields CEO, Mike Fraser and Ngadju Native Title Aboriginal Corporation (NNTAC) Chair, Thelma Dimer
Gold Fields has committed to ensuring entry-level positions for Ngadju individuals at the St Ives gold mine. To support this, additional financial aid will be available for training and education courses related to traineeships, apprenticeships, or graduate roles. Moreover, Gold Fields will prioritise Ngadju employment and procurement, with NNTAC creating registers of interested Ngadju candidates and businesses. These registers will be given priority notification of opportunities before other potential applicants.
NNTAC Chair Thelma Dimer expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “This agreement represents a significant achievement for the Ngadju Community. Following two years of dedicated negotiations, it embodies our commitment to advancing a future that both respects our cultural heritage and delivers real benefits to our people."
Dimer also highlighted the importance of the agreement's focus on cultural awareness and heritage protection, saying, “We are particularly pleased with the emphasis in the agreement on cultural awareness and protecting our heritage. This agreement addresses the historical impacts of mining on our lands and sets a precedent for future collaborations."
Gold Fields CEO Mike Fraser says, “We are delighted to be part of the Ngadju People’s journey towards self-determination with this life of-mine agreement. This agreement not only supports the social and economic outcomes for Ngadju People today, but also for future generations. Most importantly, this agreement ensures the continuation and preservation of Ngadju culture.”
Gold Industry Group commends Gold Fields Limited and the Ngadju Native Title Aboriginal Corporation for their dedication in reaching this historic agreement. This partnership not only honors the Ngadju People’s cultural heritage but also sets a foundation for future collaborations, showcasing the positive impact of respectful and inclusive engagement in the mining industry.