BHP Billiton Increases Donation To Queensland Premier's Disaster Relief Appeal To A$11 Million

23 January 2011
BHP Billiton will donate a further A$10 million to the Queensland Premier's Disaster Relief Appeal to assist with Queensland flood relief and recovery efforts. This is in addition to the previous $1 million announced on 1 January 2011. It also adds to the Company's significant in kind contributions and the volunteer efforts of our people in Queensland regional areas.
"As a major employer in Queensland and given our large contribution to the Queensland economy, we want to play a leading role in the recovery efforts. We have increased our donation to demonstrate our support for the State in which so many of our people live and work, and hope that others will also be able to do so," said BHP Billiton CEO Marius Kloppers.
BHP Billiton Metallurgical Coal President Hubie van Dalsen also noted the direct role played by the Company's workforce in recovery efforts.
"Our Company and our workforce will continue their direct on the ground recovery work and rebuilding efforts in Central Queensland, especially in Emerald, in the months ahead, " Mr van Dalsen said.
BHP Billiton has nearly 12,000 employees and contractors in Queensland. Our joint venture operations comprise eight major metallurgical coal operations in the Bowen Basin and a major silver, lead and zinc mine at Cannington. We also have close to 800 people working in Brisbane.
As well as our A$11 million cash donation, BHP Billiton has announced it will match all employee donations made through the Company's Matched Giving Program.
sourced:BHPBilliton.com