BHP Billiton, Rio Tinto back Uluru Statement as politician questions interest in Indigenous lands

The curveball decision of two mining giants to back the Uluru Statement from the Heart is being applauded by some who signed the historic proclamation, but one prominent Aboriginal leader is wary that the move is a cynical grab for Indigenous resources. Key points: BHP Billiton and Rio Tinto have announced they support the Uluru Statement from the Heart, almost two years after it was made Alice Springs town councillor Jacinta Price has questioned whether the companies were looking for a way "to look better in the eyes of Indigenous people" Prime Minister Scott Morrison said he remained opposed to a constitutionally enshrined Aboriginal voice in federal Parliament Indigenous leaders gathered near Uluru in May 2017 to deliver the joint statement, which calls for a constitutionally enshrined Aboriginal voice in Federal Parliament, and for the laying of foundations for a treaty. The Coalition Government rejected the key recommendation of the Uluru Statement in October 2017 on grounds that a new Aboriginal voice would become "a third chamber of Parliament". Rio advocating for Indigenous affairs: signatory Speaking at the launch event, BHP's chief executive Andrew Mackenzie said backing the statement almost two years after it was made was "a chance to create a new chapter in history". Miners want to look better in eyes of Indigenous people: Price Rio Tinto and BHP have mining interests on traditional lands right across the country.