Strengthening partnerships and driving change

We recently held the 2026 annual Australian Indigenous Social Investment Partner Symposium in Melbourne, bringing together Indigenous partner organisations from across the country with BHP’s Minerals Australia Indigenous Engagement, Corporate Affairs and Community teams.  

Now in its third year, the gathering represents our ongoing commitment to building strong communities of practice amongst social investment partners. This year, the agenda saw attendees engage with a series of partner panel sessions centred on the role strong women play in Indigenous communities, the impact of new voices in leading the way forward, measuring success in Indigenous social programs, and Indigenous-led advocacy in action.  

With a key focus on helping to shape a stronger, more connected partner network, the room heard from community voices on the lessons, bright spots and opportunities coming out of their organisations. 

“We’re not on this journey alone, so being in a room and hearing the other work that others do around the country, learning from them and sharing our ideas is a fantastic way to build together” - Zan King, Kanyirninpa Jukurrpa 

Reflecting on the growth and progress seen over the life of the event so far Lisa Farrelly, Vice President Corporate Affairs and Communications Australia said: 

“It’s evolved from a space where we came together to yarn and share ideas, into something much more deliberate.

Now, it’s about creating the conditions for our social investment partners to connect directly, with BHP stepping back and providing a platform for them to learn from each other, share insights and build stronger connections.

The Symposium reflects how we think about partnership, recognising that trust is built over time, through consistent action, accountability and mutual respect.

It also gives us the opportunity to genuinely listen and learn, to co-design, and to ensure what we hear shapes how we approach social investment and our broader strategy.”

Building on this, Allan James, Head of Indigenous Engagement, said:

“It was fantastic to see Indigenous partner organisations come together with our Minerals Australia teams from all corners of the country, creating space for meaningful conversations, celebrating achievements, and sharing fresh perspectives.

For me, the energy and genuine connection in the room was an important reminder that real progress comes from listening deeply, being transparent, and walking alongside each other.

Thank you to everyone who made the Symposium a success – together, we’re building lasting impact across our communities”.

Looking to 2027 and beyond, we are committed to continuing the conversation – connecting partners and learning from one another, strengthening relationships, and supporting the work of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations who are leading change in their communities. 

The Symposium is a key commitment within BHP’s Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) pillar of Culture and Community. It serves as a platform for Indigenous social investment partners to connect, share insights, and identify opportunity for collective collaboration. Read more about how BHP is progressing our Social Investment approach here.