Rio Tinto expands R&D headquarters in Melbourne
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22 October 2008
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Mining giant Rio Tinto is expanding its Advanced Technology Research Centre in Bundoora, Melbourne.
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The facility is currently conducting research into how Rio Tinto can reduce its greenhouse footprint and technical innovations such as remote operation, robotics and cleaner minerals processing.
Innovation Minister Gavin Jennings said the expanded technology centre would play a vital role in the ongoing drive towards a more sustainable and productive minerals industry.
“The Advanced Technology Research Centre is the centrepiece of Rio Tinto’s global research and development activities and we are proud to have it in Victoria,” Mr Jennings said.
“Victoria is establishing itself as a world leader in key sectors such as composite materials, minerals processing and clean energy technologies.”
“Victoria may not have the mineral resources of other states, but we do have the knowledge base and intellectual resources critical to their development.”
“By investing in, and championing research and development, Rio Tinto is engaging in activities that will help keep Australia’s mining sector thriving.
The Bundoora facility can house up to 170 people and has newly designed conference areas and laboratory and pilot plant facilities, tailored to the mining industry’s needs.
“The Victorian Government is taking action to support innovation in Victoria because research and development are so important to sustainability and continued success in the minerals industry,” Mr Jennings said.
The Government’s vision for Victorian research and development is the focus of the Victorian Innovation Statement, which was released in August 2008.
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