There are many examples of good partnerships between mining companies and local aboriginal communities. This includes opportunities in the area of employment or business development with mining companies. NSW mining companies are always looking at ways to improve their relationships with local Aboriginal communities to ensure there is good communication links to provide access to land and encourage personal and economic development for these groups.
A recent example is in the Upper Hunter Valley where the Federal Department of Industry, Tourism and Resources (DITR) conducted a two day ‘Working in Partnership’ workshop under its Indigenous Partnership Program (IPP). The program aims to support and encourage relations between indigenous communities and the minerals industry, and promote long term, effective partnerships.
The two day workshop held in Muswellbrook in mid 2005 resulted in a commitment by the local indigenous community to meet regularly in a series of meetings facilitated by DITR to develop a Protocol of how the groups in this area can work together with each other and with the minerals industry operating in the Upper Hunter. A Regional Committee made up of representatives the indigenous community and mining companies has also been established to identify employment and education opportunities and develop partnerships to access available funds from government programs.
The NSW Minerals Council and DITR are looking at other locations in NSW to hold another ‘Working in Partnership’ Workshop.
Another partnership example is the Upper Hunter Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Trust which was established in 2001 from funds provided by mining companies. The Trust is managed by delegates from the NSW Government Departments of Aboriginal Affairs, Planning and the Public Trustee, and is supported by an Advisory Group of the Upper Hunter Wonnarua Council, Wanaruah Local Aboriginal Land Council, coal mines in the region, the NSW Minerals Council and state government departments. The Trust has two aims:
1. To develop a comprehensive Regional Aboriginal Heritage Study in the Upper Hunter Valley region that provides a framework for Aboriginal cultural heritage management.
2. To provide benefits to the communities of the Upper Hunter Valley region including development and enhancement of skills.