Global diversified miner Rio Tinto has signed a new interim modernised agreement with the Ngarlawangga Aboriginal Corporation, which strengthens their partnership and delivers long-term benefits for the Ngarlawangga People.

Ngarlawangga Aboriginal Corporation acknowledges the traditional owners of country throughout Australia but has administrative offices in Perth.

The interim agreement reflects a jointly designed co-management approach, underpinning how the two parties work together on Ngarlawangga Country within the agreement area, including earlier and ongoing engagement throughout the mine lifecycle.

Using agreed processes, Ngarlawangga perspectives will shape decisions, giving all parties more certainty of how cultural heritage and land will be managed and protected.

The agreement also provides additional long-term financial support for the Ngarlawangga People to achieve their social, cultural and economic aspirations, with a strong focus on culture and community development.

Ngarlawangga Aboriginal Corporation says the modernised agreement highlights the strong partnership it has built with Rio Tinto over the years, which is a relationship built on respect. "We look forward to the next phase of implementing the agreement, and many more years of working together."

“We thank the Ngarlawangga People for the trust and openness they have shown throughout this process.

“This agreement is an important step in how we will work together to manage and protect Ngarlawangga heritage and country. We will continue to listen, learn and work together to build a strong partnership that reflects Ngarlawangga aspirations and supports responsible operations on country," says Rio Tinto iron-ore CEO Matthew Holcz.

He adds that the interim modernised agreement lays the foundation for a full modernised agreement. Ngarlawangga Aboriginal Corporation and Rio Tinto will continue working together to finalise that agreement.

The interim agreement builds on the 2011 Participation Agreement between the Ngarlawangga People and Rio Tinto.

Rio Tinto's West Angelas operations are located on the lands of the Yinhawangka and Ngarlawangga Peoples.