Because of Rio Tinto's commitment to Western Australia, the fund was established to identify and support initiatives that can contribute to the future development of the state and the welfare of its people. Rio Tinto is providing nearly US$1.5 million per year for distribution by the fund. This is in addition to community development programmes totalling US$7 million undertaken at a local level by Rio Tinto businesses in Western Australia.

The fund is not a grants scheme but a partnership programme. The aim is to develop joint venture community actions that will help the community to respond with imagination and flexibility to the challenges facing Western Australia and take advantage of emerging opportunities.

Visit the fund at www.wafuturefund.riotinto.com.