26 MARCH 2026
Earlier this year, communities across Australia where South32 operates were impacted by natural disasters, with severe flooding in Queensland’s McKinlay and Cloncurry Shires, and bushfires across Western Australia’s Boddington and Wandering Shires.
While the events occurred thousands of kilometres apart, the impact was deeply felt by those who live and work in these regions, disrupting homes, livelihoods and essential local services, and placing pressure on communities and emergency responders.
In response, South32 committed a combined $A420,000 to support recovery efforts across the four affected shires, recognising that rebuilding takes time and that local needs continue to evolve long after the immediate crisis has passed.
In Queensland, a combined $A300,000 donation is supporting flood recovery efforts in McKinlay and Cloncurry, while in Western Australia, $A120,000 is assisting bushfire-affected communities in Boddington and Wandering.
Rob Jackson, Vice President Operations at Cannington said the contribution reflects the importance of supporting neighbouring communities during times of need.
“The townships of McKinlay and Cloncurry neighbouring our Cannington mine are incredibly important to us, and we are proud to support these communities in any way we can,” he said.
“When events like this happen, we know rebuilding is never easy and can often take years, with recovery needs evolving.
“Through our donations to both shire councils, we hope to support the longer-term community and recovery efforts and empower local services to deliver assistance where it is needed most.”
The impact of the bushfires was equally significant in communities neighbouring our Boddington bauxite mine, affecting homes, livelihoods and community wellbeing across the region.
Pine Pienaar, Worsley Alumina Vice President Operations said the contribution reflects the operation’s strong connection to these communities.
“Many of our people call this region home, and the impacts of these bushfires have been felt deeply across our workforce and the wider community,” he said.
“We appreciate the leadership shown by the Shires of Boddington and Wandering throughout their respective emergency responses and early recovery efforts.
“This funding will support both shires as they continue their recovery and help strengthen local emergency response capability moving forward.”
Across both states, South32 is working closely with local governments, community groups and response agencies to ensure support is meaningful and aligned with local priorities.
Our Deputy CEO, Matt Daley, (left) recently visited our Cannington operation, where he and Vice President Operations at Cannington, Rob Jackson, (right) met with McKinlay Shire Council CEO Trevor Williams to discuss our ongoing connection with the local community.
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