BHP Billiton S Africa : supports the Uluru Statement from the Heart

After many months of consultation with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leaders, employees, community organisations and Traditional Owners, BHP CEO Andrew Mackenzie publicly acknowledged the significance and importance of the Uluru Statement from the Heart in January this year.

Andrew also reaffirmed BHP's support for the recognition of Australia's Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in the Australian Constitution.

In a joint statement with Rio Tinto, BHP endorsed the Uluru Statement from the Heart and its objectives to enshrine a First Nations Voice in the Australian constitution and establish a Makarrata Commission.

The Uluru Statement from the Heart is a national Indigenous statement on constitutional recognition that came out of the First Nations National Constitutional Convention in May 2017.

BHP CEO Andrew Mackenzie said: 'A First Nations voice to Parliament is a meaningful step towards reconciliation. It would empower Indigenous Australians and it would make sure Indigenous people have a say on the legislation, policy and programs that shape Indigenous lives, families and communities.

We will work with Australia's leaders, and use our voice to support the call to give Indigenous Australia the constitutionally-enshrined voice it deserves.'