Beyond Extractions: Leading Governance & Human Rights for SDGs

The UN Association of Western Australia (UNAAWA) convened a pivotal forum at KPMG on 14th May 2024, titled "Beyond Extraction, Leading Governance and Human Rights for SDGs." The event brought together leaders from government, academia, and the private sector to address critical issues at the intersection of governance, human rights, and sustainable development within the extractive industry.

Dr Sandy Chong, Founding Chair of the SDG Business Forum, emphasised the industry's global significance and the urgent need for leadership in addressing governance and human rights challenges, stressing the need for industry-wide awareness and collaboration. Claire Murray, State Director of DFAT, iterated Australia's commitment to promoting responsible resource governance and supporting partner countries in strengthening transparency and accountability.

Panel discussions addressed labor exploitation, indigenous engagement, and modern slavery. Participants explored strategies for promoting responsible practices, fostering collaboration, and addressing challenges such as resource constraints and regulatory gaps. Shaeron Yapp of Rio Tinto highlighted the company's commitment to sustainable development and engagement with stakeholders, underscoring the importance of partnerships in promoting human rights within the industry. Emphasised by Serena Grant from Walk Free of Minderoo Foundation, the interconnectedness between climate change and human rights issues, she stressed the importance of decarbonisation and ethical supply chains. Professor Anthony Langlois of Curtin University, highlighted the need for education and indigenous engagement, addressing modern slavery, and transparency as key human rights issues facing the extractive industry. Amanda Murphy of BHP Billiton discussed the transformative potential of AI and data analysis in promoting transparency and accountability.

The event concluded with remarks from Hon. Minister John Quigley MLA, shared his experiences on safeguarding human rights in legislation and societal progress, emphasising the need for proactive measures to protect the vulnerable populations and most fundamentally, human dignity.

Dr Sandy Chong, in her closing remarks, highlighted the imperative for ethical practices throughout the extractive industry supply chain, urging stakeholders to prioritise human rights and sustainability in their operations.

A huge thanks to all our speakers, our amazing sponsors and volunteers for their invaluable contributions in making this event a resounding success.

Together, by pushing beyond extraction and leading with human responsibility, we believe that both public and private sectors can pave the way towards a more equitable and greener future for all.