BHP’s operations in Australia and Chile contributed significantly to local communities through various social initiatives, including education, employment, and economic development, with a strong focus on Indigenous and local businesses. The company’s social impact initiatives are extensive and varied, reflecting a commitment to supporting the communities where it operates.
Material actions and disclosures
In Western Australia, BHP’s Western Australia Iron Ore (WAIO) division spent over A$750 million with local suppliers in FY2026, including over A$500 million with 117 Indigenous businesses. This spending includes more than A$300 million with 66 Traditional Owner businesses. Additionally, WAIO contributed A$15 million towards the construction of new housing in remote Pilbara communities, extending partnerships with the West Coast Eagles and Lifeline WA to support youth engagement and crisis call volunteers, and investing A$5.5 million to Telethon to support youth health initiatives in the Pilbara.
In Queensland, BHP’s BMA division spent over A$1.3 billion with more than 750 local suppliers, including over A$100 million with 45 Indigenous businesses. BMA also supported the Childcare Leadership Alliance to improve access to early childhood and school-aged care, and launched the BMA Future Ready program, providing STEM support for 18 schools in the Bowen Basin.
In South Australia, Copper SA spent over A$290 million with more than 130 local suppliers, with over A$100 million spent with 47 Indigenous businesses. Copper SA also engaged AMY Nominees to provide a dedicated courier service for laboratory samples in Prominent Hill, and supported childcare in Roxby Downs through various initiatives.
In Chile, BHP’s Escondida mine celebrated its 35th anniversary and contributed US$4 million to education, digital skills, and future workforce initiatives, benefiting more than 7,500 people. The company also supported local suppliers and innovation in the Antofagasta region through the Proveedores&Futuro portfolio, and partnered with Indigenous communities to support education, skills development, entrepreneurship, and cultural initiatives.
These initiatives reflect BHP’s commitment to supporting local communities and Indigenous businesses through procurement and partnerships, contributing to social and economic development in the regions where it operates.
Attributed to BHP’s ESG fact pack and source announcement excerpts.