Rio Tinto Group (ASX:RIO) spent a record AU$10.3 billion on suppliers in Western Australia in 2024, up AU$1.5 billion from the previous year, according to an April 4 statement by the mining giant.

The increase was driven by investments in heavy mining machinery and earthworks for the $2 billion Western Range mine in Western Australia, the company said.

Spending with indigenous-owned businesses hit AU$769 million, a 30% rise from 2023, per the statement.

The company also spent AU$969 million in the Pilbara, with 60% directed to indigenous enterprises, including AU$529 million with traditional owner businesses.