- Mineral Resources Ltd (MRL) acquires Cleveland-Cliffs Inc's Koolyanobbing iron ore operation
- State Government works with MRL to ensure economic activity continues in the Yilgarn region and WA jobs are protected
- The acquisition is another positive sign for WA's economy - up to 400 regional jobs protected
The McGowan Government has moved to protect Western Australian jobs, with support for Mineral Resources Limited's acquisition of Cleveland-Cliffs Inc's Koolyanobbing iron ore operation in the State's Yilgarn region.
MRL will also acquire Cliffs' fixed infrastructure assets at the Port of Esperance.
The acquisition will ensure that mining operations continue in the region and exports will continue to be shipped through Esperance Port.
The State Government committed to time limited royalty relief for Cliffs-related port throughput and reduced port charges, in order to guarantee continued operation at the iron ore deposit and ensure local jobs, including workers at Esperance Port, can be protected.
Comments attributed to Premier Mark McGowan:
"My Government has been working closely with Mineral Resources Limited to ensure the successful acquisition of the Koolyanobbing operation, to ensure economic activity continues in the region, and WA jobs can be saved.
"The assistance provided by the Government will allow the mining of iron ore to continue in the region, providing certainty to the local workforce.
"Creating jobs across regional WA is a big priority of my Government, and this transaction will ensure that employment opportunities remain in the region.
"The purchase of the Koolyanobbing operation by Mineral Resources Limited is a major vote of confidence in the Goldfields-Esperance region and is another positive sign that Western Australia's economy is continuing to bounce back."
Premier's office - 6552 5000
