The company, staffed entirely by indigenous workers, involves civil maintenance services on and around the Pilbara rail. It is a specialised area of expansion for the firm, which represents the Yindjibarndi people.

Roebourne-based YAC and Rio Tinto have held an indigenous land use agreement since 2013. YAC chief executive Michael Woodley called the new deal proof that Yurra has become a trusted contracting partner.

"We are delighted to have awarded Yurra its most significant contract to date and look forward to strengthening our relationship with the Yindjibarndi people, a highly valued and important partner for Rio Tinto in the Pilbara," Rio Tinto Iron Ore managing director for rail, port and core services Ivan Vella said.

"This contract is one of the first of its kind for Rio Tinto Iron Ore and one which we hope will prove a catalyst for many others like it in the future."

In related news, Rio Tinto recently awarded a contract to another majority-owned YAC business, GSBC Yurra. The nearly A$10 million (US$7 million) deal includes the refurbishment of the Rocklea Palms Accommodation Village in Paraburdoo.

That work is expected to wrap up later this year.

According to Rio Tinto data, it has engaged Yurra on more than A$15 million worth of work.