FMG awards record $350m contract for work across its Pilbara operation

Under the Billion Opportunities program, Fortescue Metals Group (FMG) has awarded a record $350 million contract to Aboriginal business Warrikal Pty Ltd as one of the companies to provide maintenance and shutdown services across Fortescue’s Pilbara operations. 

Western Australia-based Warrikal Pty Ltd – owned by Koori businesswoman Amanda Healy along with business partners Roy Messer and David Flett – has been providing works such as mechanical maintenance, shutdown and project services over the past three years across Fortescue’s operations. 

“We look forward to further developing our relationship over coming years, continuing to grow our operational footprint in the North West of Western Australia and strengthening our long-term commitment to the region and the communities in which we operate. 

“The award of this contract and the continual business growth is a testament to our amazing personnel and our reputation for delivering ‘Innovative Engineering Solutions’ across multiple disciplines, whilst maintaining a high standard of safety and quality as a true reflection of each and every Warrikal team member,” Warrikal Chief Executive Officer Amanda Healy said. 

Warrikal Pty Ltd staff celebrating (source: Fortescue Metals Group)

Fortescue’s Billion Opportunities program started in 2011 and it aims to provide business development opportunities for Aboriginal people “with a strong focus on Traditional Custodian involvement”. 

To date, this program has awarded more than $3 billion in contracts to Aboriginal-owned businesses as well as joint ventures. 

In addition, the Fortescue Future Industries was announced in May 2021 and it will target to award up to $1 billion in contracts to Aboriginal businesses as well as joint ventures on green energy projects by 2030.

The five-year $350 million contract was awarded to Warrikal Pty Ltd following a competitive tender process and it is the single largest contract award under the program. 

“Fortescue is committed to supporting sustainable long-term opportunities for Aboriginal businesses. Procurement is one of the most powerful levers for social and economic change, and from experience we know that a strong Aboriginal business sector is best places to create employment and development opportunities for their communities. 

“I am pleased to announce this significant contract with Warrikal, the largest to be awarded by Fortescue and also among the biggest contracts to be awarded in Australia to a majority owned Aboriginal business,” Fortescue Metals Group Chief Executive Officer Elizabeth Gaines said. 

Warrikal Pty Ltd began its operations in 2017, providing innovative engineering solutions across sectors such as mining, marine and resources. 

Source: Fortescue Metals Group; Mining Weekly; Australian Mining; Mining Journal