WorldUpdated November 3

Rio Tinto backs a Pilbara toad barrier.

The plan starts with an unusual pairing: a waterless barrier and upgrades to pastoral water infrastructure. Rio Tinto and the Rhodes Ridge Joint Venture are jointly investing A$28 million over five years, with Curtin University as a project partner. The upgrades support a toad containment zone south of Broome, while the barrier is planned to cover 7,500 square kilometres. Early works are underway ahead of the planned 2027 start. Curtin professor Ben Phillips says cane toads are on track to reach the Pilbara within two decades unless action is taken. Rio Tinto estimates 25 native species could be significantly affected if they do.

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Coverage started November 3