More than 400 workers at Rio Tinto's Paraburdoo iron ore mine in Western Australia's Pilbara region have signed a petition supporting collective bargaining, initiated by the Western Mine Workers Alliance (WMWA).

This marked the first attempt in over 20 years to negotiate a collective agreement at the mine. The mine is part of Rio Tinto's operations, employing around 16,000 people and shipping 328.6 million tons of iron ore in 2024.

The WMWA planned to formally apply to Australia's Fair Work Commission to compel Rio Tinto to engage in collective bargaining with its workforce. 

Rio Tinto defended its current approach, stating it has driven productivity, wage growth, and economic benefits, including job creation and royalty payments.