Global Infrastructure SherpaRio Tinto and Western Australian Government form 50:50 joint venture to expand Dampier Seawater Desalination Plant
Rio Tinto and the Western Australian Government formed a 50:50 joint venture to expand the Dampier Seawater Desalination Plant, securing critical water supply for Rio Tinto.
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Counterparts (2)
Partner
Western Australian Government
The Western Australian Government manages a ~$40B annual budget and oversees the development and operation of critical public infrastructure across the state, including ports, roads, rail, and energy assets, primarily supporting its ~$300B resource-driven economy.
Rio Tinto
Rio Tinto is a leading global mining group that focuses on finding, mining, and processing the Earth's mineral resources. While primarily a mining company, its operations and investments touch upon infrastructure development, particularly in regions where it operates mines and related facilities.
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Rio Tinto, a global mining group, is strategically investing in water infrastructure through a 50:50 joint venture with the Western Australian Government. This partnership aims to expand the Dampier Seawater Desalination Plant, securing 8GL of desalinated water annually. For Rio Tinto, this ensures critical resource security for its water-intensive mining operations in the region. The government's equal stake highlights the project's importance for broader regional water resilience and development. This collaborative model mitigates risk while addressing essential utility needs.
- 50:50 joint venture between Rio Tinto and the Western Australian Government.
- Expansion of the Dampier Seawater Desalination Plant (Stage 1 and Stage 2).
- Delivery of 8GL of desalinated water per year.
- Rio Tinto, a global mining group, diversifying investment into water infrastructure.
Timeline
Announced
Mar 3, 2026
Signed
Closed
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