BHP announced this morning that it will seek to support regional communities in the wake of the COVID-19 crisis.
The mining giant said it will establish a $50 million (AUD) Vital Resources Fund to help support regional Australian communities in its areas of operation, which are facing the significant challenge of the COVID-19 pandemic.
One of the areas of key focus will be the local and regional health networks for critical infrastructure, services and workforces.
AMSJ understands that the bolstering of community health in mining communities is a key risk for miners in the wake of a virus outbreak. An outbreak of COVID-19 in a mining community could leave community medical facilities decimated. The move by BHP will no doubt be welcomed.
“BHP stands with the regional communities we operate in. With those communities facing significant challenges, we are stepping up in establishing the Vital Resources Fund, which will provide support in a range of areas such as health services and resilience-building during this difficult time” BHP CEO Mike Henry said.
“We know COVID-19 will require a significant collective response from governments, businesses, communities and individuals across Australia. We are determined to play our part as we work through this challenge together.”
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Spending will be focused on the regions surrounding BHP’s Australian operations, including the Bowen Basin in Central Queensland, the Hunter Valley in NSW, Roxby Downs and the Upper Spencer Gulf in South Australia, and the Pilbara and Goldfields regions in Western Australia.
Over the coming weeks and months, BHP will work with relevant leaders and groups to distribute funding according to local needs and in a manner aligned with government programs and initiatives.
Anticipated areas of support include:
- Local and regional health networks for critical infrastructure, services and workforces.
- Essential community services that keep regions strong.
- Community mental health and resilience.
- Social partners and community leaders to support rural and remote Indigenous communities.
- Over the longer term, working with governments at all levels to increase resources and training available to jobseekers.
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