OZ Minerals supports development of local businesses directly through contracts for mine-related services, mentoring and training initiatives and seed funding. Indirectly our operations support local businesses through preferential purchase of local goods and services.

We are conscious that our operations are often the primary source of revenue for local businesses during operations. Hence, we focus our business development initiatives on transferable technologies, skills and building livelihoods that are sustainable post mine closure.

Prominent Hill developed a new Indigenous business development program, which will commence in 2009. The program involves inviting successful Indigenous businesses from around Australia to mentor and train Indigenous contractors on-site, with a view to Indigenous businesses taking over some contracts.

At Sepon local business development initiatives have to date included purchase of food, locally made sample bags, mine uniforms and other services. During 2008, business development activities were extended to include contracting a variety of essential site services to local enterprises including housekeeping, grounds, shops and bars. The operation also continued to actively support the development of textile, handicraft and other local businesses.