NRW’s Primero Secures $157M Rio Tinto Contract for Pilbara Expansion
NRW Holdings’ subsidiary Primero Group has landed a $157 million contract from Rio Tinto to deliver critical infrastructure at Hope Downs in Western Australia, extending their longstanding partnership.
- Primero awarded $157 million contract by Rio Tinto
- Project involves design and construction of Non-Process Infrastructure at Hope Downs 2 Satellite & Bedded Hilltop
- Contract part of Hope Downs 1 Sustaining Project in Pilbara region
- Work scheduled to complete by December 2026, with site works starting Q4 2025
- Contract reinforces Primero’s reputation in engineering and construction services
A Significant Win for NRW Holdings’ Subsidiary
NRW Holdings Limited’s wholly owned subsidiary, Primero Group Limited, has been awarded a substantial contract by mining giant Rio Tinto. Valued at approximately $157 million, the contract covers the design, supply, installation, construction, testing, commissioning, and handover of Non-Process Infrastructure (NPI) works at the Hope Downs 2 Satellite and Bedded Hilltop sites. This contract is a key component of Rio Tinto’s broader Hope Downs 1 Sustaining Project in the resource-rich Pilbara region of Western Australia.
Extending a Long-Term Partnership
The award underscores the enduring relationship between Primero and Rio Tinto, with Primero’s Managing Director Michael Gollschewski highlighting the continuation of their collaboration on world-class infrastructure projects. NRW Holdings’ CEO and Managing Director Jules Pemberton echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that the contract further cements Primero’s standing as a leading provider of engineering and construction services in the mining sector.
Project Timeline and Scope
Design and procurement activities are set to begin immediately, with site works anticipated to commence in the fourth quarter of 2025, contingent upon receiving all necessary external approvals. The project is scheduled for completion by December 2026, marking a significant multi-year engagement for Primero. The scope of work involves critical infrastructure that supports mining operations but does not directly involve mineral processing, highlighting the importance of comprehensive site development in sustaining mining productivity.
Strategic Implications for NRW Holdings
This contract award not only boosts NRW Holdings’ project pipeline but also reinforces its diversified service offering across the resources and infrastructure sectors. With a workforce of around 8,000 and operations spanning Australia and North America, NRW’s ability to secure large-scale contracts with major clients like Rio Tinto is a testament to its operational capabilities and strategic positioning in the competitive mining services market.
Looking Ahead
As the Hope Downs 1 Sustaining Project progresses, market watchers will be keen to monitor the execution of this contract and its impact on NRW’s financial performance. The timing of site works depends on regulatory approvals, which could influence project milestones. Nonetheless, this contract win signals confidence from one of the world’s largest mining companies in NRW’s engineering and construction expertise.
Bottom Line?
Primero’s latest contract win with Rio Tinto sets the stage for sustained growth amid evolving mining infrastructure demands.
Questions in the middle?
- Will external approvals proceed on schedule to enable Q4 2025 site commencement?
- How will this contract impact NRW Holdings’ revenue and margins over the next 18 months?
- Could this project lead to further contract extensions or new opportunities with Rio Tinto?
