Each year, National Reconciliation Week (NRW) prompts deeper reflection on the nation’s journey toward reconciliation and recognises the culture, history and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
The NRW 2025 theme, Bridging Now to Next, reflects the ongoing connection between past, present and future, and calls on all Australians to step forward together by recognising a shared responsibility in achieving reconciliation.
MinRes' approach to reconciliation prioritises education, mutual respect and positive action through on-ground cultural awareness, employment pathways and supporting economic empowerment of Indigenous businesses.
Through its Indigenous Employment Strategy, the company is also committed to providing a culturally supportive and safe work environment, while increasing representation across its workforce.
In reflecting on 2025 National Reconciliation Week, MinRes employees shared insights into their career journey ways culture and connection can guide reconciliation.
Kenneth Kelly recently started his boilermaker apprenticeship in early 2025, having spent the previous 12 months on site as a Trade Assistance at MinRes' Carina iron ore project.
“I like learning new stuff and challenging myself which has been good as an apprentice, and I look forward to perfecting my trade over time with MinRes and continuing to learn new things,” Kelly said.
“In the future, I hope to be the best boily and tradesman I can be and really challenge myself, to show young Indigenous kids they can do anything they put their mind to.”
For Chloe Milera-McLennan and Jannikah Clinch, entry into the resources sector came through MinRes' Accelerate program, which supports increased Indigenous employment across its operations.
“At first, I felt quite intimidated by the mining industry but slowly found my space by enjoying what I do and being surrounded by like-minded people,” Milera-McLennan said.
“I like to connect through shared and differentiated experiences and comprehend what those perspectives mean to that person which allows us to connect.
“Connection to culture is what I hold dear to my heart as I have never forgotten where I come from and continue to hold that connection by revisiting my Country as often as I can.”
For Clinch, the ability to work independently and make connections across diverse teams and environments has been one of the most rewarding aspects of the job.
“I enjoy the industry as it allows me to meet new people and form connections, a chance to make friends and work with people from diverse backgrounds,” she said.
“Being financially safe has given me the means to live independently and save for the future.”
“What I have been taught by my Elders, and what I hope to pass on, is the importance of staying in school and education, staying true to one's roots and embracing opportunities.”
MinRes Director People Andrea Chapman said the company continues to prioritise economic empowerment, employment initiatives and cultural awareness programs for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as part of its overarching reconciliation framework.
“Hearing the stories and perspectives of our young Indigenous employees inspires us to keep building opportunities, encourage growth and create a workplace where everyone feels valued and respected,” Chapman said.
MinRes continues to prioritise Indigenous engagement through business development, community grant funding, sharing of culture through cultural awareness sessions and development of Indigenous employee networks providing culturally appropriate support.
Head to the Indigenous engagement page of the MinRes website or refer to the 2024 Sustainability Report for more information.
