Argyle diamond mine: a model for First Nations engagement

Authors: Reeves, D; Dowell, K; Welch, J Download Paper Open access courtesy of:

DOI https://doi.org/10.36487/ACG_repo/2515_42

Cite As:
Reeves, D, Dowell, K & Welch, J 2025, 'Argyle diamond mine: a model for First Nations engagement', in S Knutsson, AB Fourie & M Tibbett (eds), Mine Closure 2025: Proceedings of the 18th International Conference on Mine Closure, Australian Centre for Geomechanics, Perth, pp. 1-15, https://doi.org/10.36487/ACG_repo/2515_42



Abstract:
The Gelganyem Group represents the Traditional Owners (TOs) of Argyle diamond mine in the remote East Kimberley region of North Western Australia. In November 2020 mining ceased at Argyle after 37 years of operations and the production of more than 865 million carats of rough diamonds. Just as Argyle’s TOs pioneered new ways to engage during exploration and mining, they have now designed a robust engagement strategy to lead the charge for the negotiation of positive technical, environmental, economic and cultural outcomes for all parties in mine closure. Whilst most mining companies appreciate the critical need to engage with First Nations groups to agree a closure vision and strategy, many do not know how best to do this. Gelganyem’s closure work plan (CWP) model: There are many lessons to be learned from the Argyle closure; the first mine closure of its size globally. First Nations participation in mine closure is critical to ensure its success. The CWP model will help mining companies and First Nations people work together to improve mine closure outcomes for everyone. Argyle TOs are keen to ensure that mining companies and other First Nations groups benefit from the Argyle experience and maximise positive, meaningful and effective First Nations engagement and participation in mine closure planning, design and execution.

Keywords: mine closure, First Nations, engagement, finding better ways

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