- Reg Howard-Smith appointed inaugural chair of the Resources Community Investment Initiative Advisory Committee
- Advisory Committee also includes representatives from government agencies and the Chamber of Minerals and Energy
- Expression of Interest process launched to match contributions to RCII projects
The McGowan Government has today appointed the inaugural chair of its State-first Resources Community Investment Initiative (RCII), launching an Expression of Interest process for companies to identify projects they wish to contribute to.
The RCII, which was launched on 22 November 2022, will facilitate investment from the resources industry in iconic infrastructure projects and community initiatives across Western Australia.
The initiative's foundation partners have already committed a total of $750 million, which is made up of contributions from Rio Tinto ($250 million), BHP ($250 million), Hancock Prospecting, Roy Hill and Atlas Iron ($100 million), Woodside Energy ($50 million), Chevron Australia ($50 million) and Mineral Resources ($50 million).
This funding will be used to invest in iconic projects that leave a lasting legacy for Western Australia. An initial pipeline of projects has already been identified, including the Aboriginal Cultural Centre, Perth Zoo Master Plan, Remote Aboriginal Communities Fund, Perth Concert Hall redevelopment, expansion of Ronald McDonald House and additional contributions to Telethon.
Today, the State Government will launch the expression of interest process, allowing contributing companies to indicate which projects they want to make a financial contribution to. Companies will also be able to put forward transformational projects for consideration that provide long-term social and economic outcomes in the regions they operate in.
Other resource companies are encouraged to participate in the RCII, with additional contributions already pledged. A further announcement of contributions will be made following the close of the Expression of Interest process on 31 July 2023.
To ensure the highest standards of governance and oversee the EOI process, the Government has established an Advisory Committee, which includes an independent chair, the CEO of the Chamber of Minerals and Energy (WA) and senior representatives from government agencies.
Reg Howard-Smith has been appointed the inaugural Chair of the RCII Advisory Committee, which will also play a part in promoting the RCII to industry and encouraging participation.
Mr Howard-Smith brings a wealth of experience in both the resources industry and government relations.
For more information please visit the Resources Community Investment Initiative website.
Comments attributed to Premier Mark McGowan:
"The Resources Community Investment Initiative builds on the State's ongoing collaboration with WA's resources industry and provides a mechanism to partner to deliver projects with lasting benefits for generations of Western Australians.
"I welcome Reg Howard-Smith's appointment as the inaugural chair of the RCCI Advisory Committee - his extensive experience in both the resources industry and working with government will help to ensure this initiative is a success.
"The Expression of Interest process launched today gets the ball rolling on negotiations with the sector to match contributions to the iconic RCII projects as well as projects that will provide long-term social and economic benefits in the communities that resources companies operate in.
"I am confident that other WA resources companies will join this worthwhile initiative. Together, we can improve the lives of Western Australians and make our State a better place to live for many years to come."
Premier's office - 6552 5000
