South32 backs ICMM Diversity, Inclusion and Equity position statement

That’s why, as a member of the International Council for Mining and Metals (ICMM), South32 is committed to the ICMM Diversity, Inclusion and Equity (DEI) position statement (link), launched today. 

The position statement is a new, collective commitment of ICMM members to improve diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the mining and metals industry. The position statement and more information is available here (icmm.com).

In the mining industry, women represent less than 14 per cent of the total workforce, with women and other underrepresented groups significantly more likely to experience sexual harassment, discrimination and bullying. That’s why ICMM members have committed to work together to make change. 

Compared to the global industry average, South32 is doing well when it comes to representation of women in the workforce. As at 30 April this year, our global workforce was made up of 20 per cent women – 6 per cent higher than the industry average. We know there’s more we can do though, so we’re committed to taking four actions together with all ICMM members by the end of 2024:  

• Accelerating action to eliminate harmful behaviours;
• Setting goals to eliminate harassment and discriminatory behaviours;
• Increasing transparency by sharing data; and
• Collaborating as an industry to find solutions.

For South32, the ICMM DEI position statement is close to our heart and links closely to our values, and our Living our Code training, which aims to build a respectful and inclusive workplace.

Our vision for diversity considers the broadest definition of difference, and our aspiration is that our workforce reflects the communities where we operate. We’re focused on continuing to improve our representation of women and building a workplace we can all be proud of, and will maintain focus on our journey to get there.