Mining is deeply embedded in who I am. It’s an industry that has shaped me, taught me resilience, and given me an appreciation for the remarkable people who make it what it is. Looking back at the early days of my career, things were pretty different. Diversity was almost nonexistent, and opportunities, at times, felt limited. But even then, I saw an extraordinary spirit of resilience and determination among those who worked to broaden the industry’s horizons. Their efforts kickstarted a much-needed shift in how we think about diversity and inclusion, laying the groundwork for the progress we’re now seeing.

Today, the mining industry brings together people from all walks of life – be it in operations, engineering, or geology – and we’ve started building pathways to create genuinely inclusive work environments. Conversations about equity and inclusivity are no longer optional; they’re essential in shaping the future of the industry.

At Fortescue, we’ve seen firsthand how a more diverse workforce delivers better results – not just in productivity, but in innovation and building stronger teams. At its core, diversity is about creating an environment where everyone feels valued, empowered and able to thrive. Some of the most dynamic and innovative teams I’ve had the privilege of working with were diverse – not just in gender, but in demographics, in thought and in perspective. The benefits of this approach are undeniable – it fuels creativity, improves decision-making, and strengthens our business at every level.

Meaningful change starts with leadership. As leaders, we have a responsibility to challenge the status quo, break down barriers and pave the way for a future where inclusivity isn’t just an aspiration, but a reality. Imagine what the mining industry could achieve if it truly reflected the diverse talents of the communities we operate in – if opportunities were accessible to everyone. That’s the vision we should be striving for.

At Fortescue, we’re taking real steps to make this vision a reality – introducing policies like gender-neutral parental leave, offering flexible working arrangements and implementing diverse recruitment programs. But we know that policies alone won’t get us there. True inclusion requires active listening and genuine engagement. I have made it a priority to speak with team members across the company, to hear their stories and understand the barriers they’ve faced. Those conversations have been insightful, sometimes
challenging, but they’ve also been vital in shaping our approach to breaking those barriers down.

We must also acknowledge that equity is not a one-time achievement – but rather, an ongoing journey. It requires dedication, reflection and a willingness to adapt as we grow. Cultivating a Values-driven culture that evolves and improves over time is key to creating a workplace where everyone can thrive.

As a Company, Fortescue has come a long way, but we know there’s more work to be done. I want to see a future where diversity isn’t something we keep debating – but instead, where workplaces naturally reflect the incredible mix of people and perspectives in our communities. And the beauty of this vision is that when we get it right, it’s not just individuals or specific groups who benefit – it’s all of us.