In a shocking revelation, Rio Tinto has reported a disturbing rise in sexual assault and bullying allegations despite its high-profile efforts to overhaul workplace culture. The findings, detailed in a 76-page report by former Australian sex discrimination commissioner Elizabeth Broderick, expose a culture where progress is clashing with resistance, fueling retaliation and unrest within the mining giant’s global workforce.
The report reveals eight allegations of rape or attempted rape in the past year—an alarming jump from five in 2021. Bullying claims surged to a staggering 39% of employees, up from 31% in 2021, with women bearing the brunt of a wave of gendered bullying linked to the company’s diversity initiatives.
Diversity Push Sparks Retaliation
Rio Tinto’s drive to promote gender inclusion has unleashed backlash, with Broderick’s report pointing to “retaliation in the form of gendered bullying.” The hostility, primarily from male employees, stems from a belief that diversity efforts amount to “reverse discrimination,” with some claiming that unqualified candidates are prioritised over merit.
“This change can be explained by increasing resistance to Rio Tinto’s efforts to promote gender balance,” the report said, highlighting the deep divisions within the £84 billion company’s workforce.
“Horrible Behavior Persists,” Leadership Admits
Rio Tinto’s leaders have been forced to confront the harsh reality of the review. Jakob Stausholm, the company’s CEO, issued a public apology, calling the findings “greatly troubling.”
“People are still experiencing unacceptable and harmful behaviours and attitudes in our company. I sincerely apologise on behalf of our leadership team to anyone affected,” Stausholm said, vowing to continue reforms.
Kellie Parker, Rio Tinto’s Chief Executive for Australia, admitted to a “significant increase” in terminations as the company cracks down on unacceptable behaviour. However, she also acknowledged a spectrum of misconduct, from “low-level sexism” to extreme cases resulting in dismissals.
Divided Workforce, Mounting Pressure
The cultural divide within Rio Tinto’s ranks is stark. Nearly half of the women surveyed reported experiencing bullying in the past year—up from 36% in 2021—compared with 36% of men. This stark contrast underscores the depth of the issue and the urgent need for unity. While some employees expressed confidence in Rio’s ability to change, resistance from others underscores the challenges of overhauling a system entrenched in decades of tradition.
Despite the setbacks, Broderick praised the company’s steps toward reform, including enhanced security measures and quotas to boost female participation. Yet, she warned, “This is a normal part of the cultural change process. With sustained focus, positive change will spread over time.”
Time Running Out for Cultural Change
Rio Tinto, which operates in 35 countries with a workforce of 57,000, has tied executive bonuses to progress in implementing Broderick’s recommendations. However, as reports of abuse and resistance rise, the company faces mounting pressure and growing scrutiny over whether its promises of change will translate into meaningful action. The need for transparency and accountability is more pressing than ever.
As Stausholm vowed to “stay the course,” critics argue the clock is ticking for Rio Tinto to prove its commitment to ending a toxic culture. For many employees, the stakes couldn’t be higher: their safety, dignity, and livelihoods hang in the balance. The urgency for meaningful change is palpable, and the need for immediate action is undeniable.
