Under the agreements, the Native Title Claim groups receive significant benefits from Newcrest in return for facilitating the grant of Miscellaneous Licences for the pipeline corridor and undertaking heritage clearance surveys. Newcrest also agreed to assist the groups with a number of community development initiatives, including training and employment programs, business development, and the establishment of Trusts to manage the benefits. The agreements also provide for the groups to be involved in cultural awareness training for the pipeline workforce and to assist Newcrest in the implementation of an Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Management Plan during the construction phase of the project. The formal signing of three agreements between the Martu people and Newcrest Mining Ltd offer benefits to both parties. The Infrastructure Corridor Agreement facilitated the grant of tenure for the construction and operation of the gas pipeline between Hedland and Telfer in Martu country.

In return for a benefits package to be provided by Newcrest, the Martu assisted Newcrest in gaining approvals for the project. The benefits package included training, employment and business development opportunities. A Memorandum of Understanding provided the basis for negotiations between Newcrest and the Martu in relation to the expansion of the Telfer Goldmine. It established a Community Consultative Committee, secured Cultural Awareness Training for the mine’s workforce, and supported community development initiatives for the Martu communities in the Telfer region. A Community Benefits Agreement provided a range ofr benefits to the Martu communities and outlined a process for allocating funds toward community development projects. By 2008, a single, all-embracing agreement will take effect to provide extensive and long-term opportunities for the mutual benefit of Newcrest and the Martu.

The signing represents an integral phase of Newcrest’s Communities Policy, which promises a commitment to closer and more effective relationships with its Indigenous neighbours. Newcrest has established formal training programs and provided practical support for the Aboriginal communities of the Telfer region. For example, at Punmu, 115km east of Telfer, Newcrest established a house and provided extensive infrastructure support for a Healthy Lifestyle Program conducted in conjunction with the University of Western Australia . Newcrest’s Community Relations Plan embraces tackling a range of social, cultural, economic and environmental issues to deliver positive outcomes.