Rio Tinto will reduce production at the Yarwun Alumina Refinery in Gladstone, Australia, by 40% from October 2026.
The reduction will decrease annual alumina production by around 1.2Mt and affect 180 roles, with redeployment planning already underway at Rio Tinto.
Aluminium Pacific Operations Managing Director at Rio Tinto, Armando Torres, said: “While we have extensively explored options to develop a second tailings facility for Yarwun over a number of years, the scale of investment required is substantial and not currently economically viable.
“Reducing production from October 2026 enables us to continue alumina production until 2035 and trial pathways to secure the longer-term future of Yarwun.
“We are committed to our alumina and aluminium operations in Gladstone and will work closely with employees, contractors and suppliers to manage this transition.
“It is a difficult but necessary decision that preserves future options for the site and supports continued economic contribution.”
Customers and Rio Tinto’s other operations will not be affected by the reduction, as the company’s other operations will continue to operate at full capacity.
Yarwun currently employs around 725 people and produces 3Mt of alumina per year.
