Published on Friday, 5 December 2025 at 12:50:08 PM
The City of Busselton has renewed and strengthened its long-standing partnership with Rio Tinto, extending the collaboration for another three years. The new agreement brings the total value of the partnership to $300,000, continuing programs that bring people together and support young voices in the South West, while expanding the scope of initiatives and resources available to the community.
The partnership, which was established in 2014, has played a key role in enhancing youth services and opportunities across the region. A key feature of the renewed agreement is Rio Tinto’s continued support for the part-funding of the City’s annual Youth Development Trainee position. This valued role enables young people to launch their careers while contributing to meaningful community initiatives, helping the City stay connected to youth culture, emerging trends and challenges young people face.
Additional funding secured through this latest agreement will enable the City to undertake a youth needs assessment for youth services in Vasse, one of the district’s fastest-growing communities. The agreement will also guide the development of new, customised programs tailored to meet the evolving needs of young people, with a particular focus on neurodiverse youth, youth at risk, LGBTQIA+ young people, and young people living with a disability.
The partnership aligns closely with the objectives outlined in the City’s Council Plan 2024-2034 shaped through extensive community feedback. Key deliverables include enhancing youth lifestyle and leadership opportunities and strengthening collaboration with industry, government and not-for-profit organisations. Priority initiatives will centre on upskilling programs, wellness activities and a diverse calendar of family and youth-focused events across the City.
City of Busselton Deputy Mayor, Kate Cox said: “The City is thrilled to renew its partnership with Rio Tinto, who are equally committed to support and invest in our next generation. The funding will help deliver more inclusive youth services across the region.”
“Young people in regional communities deserve access to facilities and services that support their needs. The funding is a real opportunity to expand the City’s youth services, providing young people with opportunities to develop useful skills, engage, socialise and receive positive mentoring. Our community can truly thrive when its young people feel valued, supported and empowered.”
Rio Tinto Iron Ore General Manager Communities, Molly Singline said: “This partnership is about empowering the City of Busselton to deliver programs that make a real difference for young people in the South West.
“Over more than a decade, we’ve seen how working together creates meaningful opportunities for youth to learn, lead and connect with their community.
“By strengthening this collaboration, the City can expand its services and tailor programs to meet the changing needs of local young people and, importantly, ensure they have a voice in shaping the initiatives that matter most to them.”
Objectives outlined in this statement are aligned with the City of Busselton’s Council Plan (2024 - 2034) Key Theme Opportunity – We have a vibrant and growing economy with diverse opportunities for everyone to learn, work and flourish.
Photo L-R: Rio Tinto Community Relations Specialist SW, Meredith Dixon; City of Busselton Youth Development Supervisor, Angela Griffin; Rio Tinto Principal Advisor WA Communities, Michelle Pontré; City of Busselton Youth Development Trainee, Darcey Pes.
Ends. Media enquiries can be directed to pr@busselton.wa.gov.au
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