XML 251 R219.htm IDEA: XBRL DOCUMENT
v3.19.3.a.u2

Principal joint ventures - Summary financial information for joint ventures by fair value (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 12 Months Ended
--- | ---
Dec. 31, 2019 | Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017
Disclosure of joint ventures [line items] |  |  |  |  |
Consolidated sales revenue | $ 43,165 |  | $ 40,522 |  | $ 40,030
Depreciation and amortisation | (4,384) |  | (4,015) |  | (4,375)
Finance costs | (554) |  | (552) |  | (848)
Taxation | (4,147) |  | (4,242) |  | (3,965)
Profit after tax for the year | 6,972 |  | 13,925 |  | 8,851
Other comprehensive loss | 346 |  | (3,139) |  | 3,088
Total comprehensive income | 7,318 | [1] | 10,786 | [1] | $ 11,939
Non-current assets | 70,499 |  | 70,047 |  |
Current assets | 17,303 |  | 20,168 |  |
Non-current liabilities | (31,435) |  | (30,261) |  |
Net assets | 45,242 |  | 49,823 |  |
Cash and cash equivalents | 8,027 |  | 10,773 |  |
Minera Escondida Limitada [Member] |  |  |  |  |
Disclosure of joint ventures [line items] |  |  |  |  |
Consolidated sales revenue | 7,120 |  | 7,580 |  |
Depreciation and amortisation | (1,693) |  | (1,727) |  |
Other operating costs | (3,670) |  | (3,230) |  |
Operating profit | 1,757 |  | 2,623 |  |
Finance costs | (157) |  | (163) |  |
Taxation | (627) |  | (873) |  |
Profit after tax for the year | 973 |  | 1,587 |  |
Other comprehensive loss | (17) |  | 0 |  |
Total comprehensive income | 956 |  | 1,587 |  |
Non-current assets | 12,450 |  | 13,027 |  |
Current assets | 2,250 |  | 2,413 |  |
Current liabilities | (1,827) |  | (1,637) |  |
Non-current liabilities | (4,670) |  | (4,460) |  |
Net assets | 8,203 |  | 9,343 |  |
Cash and cash equivalents | 603 |  | 697 |  |
– current financial liabilities | (807) |  | (230) |  |
– non-current financial liabilities | (2,380) |  | (2,763) |  |
Dividends received from joint venture (Rio Tinto share) | 666 |  | 786 |  |
Sohar Aluminium Co. L.L.C. |  |  |  |  |
Disclosure of joint ventures [line items] |  |  |  |  |
Consolidated sales revenue | 715 |  | 810 |  |
Depreciation and amortisation | (115) |  | (120) |  |
Other operating costs | (505) |  | (440) |  |
Operating profit | 95 |  | 250 |  |
Finance costs | (35) |  | (35) |  |
Taxation | (10) |  | (40) |  |
Profit after tax for the year | 50 |  | 175 |  |
Other comprehensive loss | 0 |  | 0 |  |
Total comprehensive income | 50 |  | 175 |  |
Non-current assets | 3,045 |  | 3,085 |  |
Current assets | 290 |  | 340 |  |
Current liabilities | (205) |  | (230) |  |
Non-current liabilities | (845) |  | (955) |  |
Net assets | 2,285 |  | 2,240 |  |
Cash and cash equivalents | 20 |  | 15 |  |
– current financial liabilities | (110) |  | (100) |  |
– non-current financial liabilities | (675) |  | (795) |  |
Dividends received from joint venture (Rio Tinto share) | $ 0 |  | $ 0 |  |
[1] | Refer to Group statement of comprehensive income for further details. Adjustments to other reserves include currency translation attributable to owners of Rio Tinto, other than that arising on Rio Tinto Limited’s share capital.

X
- Definition The amount of cash on hand and demand deposits, along with short-term, highly liquid investments that are readily convertible to known amounts of cash and that are subject to an insignificant risk of changes in value. [Refer: Cash; Cash equivalents] + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Name IAS -Number 7 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph 45 -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IAS&num=7&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_45&doctype=Standard -URIDate 2019-03-27 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Name IFRS -Number 12 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph B13 -Subparagraph a -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IFRS&num=12&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_B13_a&doctype=Appendix&subtype=B -URIDate 2019-03-27 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Name IAS -Number 1 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph 54 -Subparagraph i -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IAS&num=1&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_54_i&doctype=Standard -URIDate 2019-03-27 + Details
Name: | ifrs-full_CashAndCashEquivalents
Namespace Prefix: | ifrs-full_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition The amount of change in equity resulting from transactions and other events, other than those changes resulting from transactions with owners in their capacity as owners. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Name IFRS -Number 1 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph 32 -Subparagraph a -Clause ii -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IFRS&num=1&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_32_a_ii&doctype=Standard -URIDate 2019-03-27 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Name IFRS -Number 1 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph 24 -Subparagraph b -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IFRS&num=1&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_24_b&doctype=Standard -URIDate 2019-03-27 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Name IFRS -Number 12 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph B12 -Subparagraph b -Clause ix -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IFRS&num=12&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_B12_b_ix&doctype=Appendix&subtype=B -URIDate 2019-03-27 Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Name IAS -Number 1 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph 106 -Subparagraph a -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IAS&num=1&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_106_a&doctype=Standard -URIDate 2019-03-27 Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/exampleRef -Name IFRS -Number 12 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph B10 -Subparagraph b -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IFRS&num=12&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_B10_b&doctype=Appendix&subtype=B -URIDate 2019-03-27 Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Name IAS -Number 1 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph 81A -Subparagraph c -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IAS&num=1&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_81A_c&doctype=Standard -URIDate 2019-03-27 + Details
Name: | ifrs-full_ComprehensiveIncome
Namespace Prefix: | ifrs-full_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition The amount of assets that the entity (a) expects to realise or intends to sell or consume in its normal operating cycle; (b) holds primarily for the purpose of trading; (c) expects to realise within twelve months after the reporting period; or (d) classifies as cash or cash equivalents (as defined in IAS 7) unless the asset is restricted from being exchanged or used to settle a liability for at least twelve months after the reporting period. [Refer: Assets] + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Name IFRS -Number 12 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph B12 -Subparagraph b -Clause i -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IFRS&num=12&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_B12_b_i&doctype=Appendix&subtype=B -URIDate 2019-03-27 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Name IAS -Number 1 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph 66 -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IAS&num=1&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_66&doctype=Standard -URIDate 2019-03-27 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/exampleRef -Name IFRS -Number 12 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph B10 -Subparagraph b -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IFRS&num=12&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_B10_b&doctype=Appendix&subtype=B -URIDate 2019-03-27 + Details
Name: | ifrs-full_CurrentAssets
Namespace Prefix: | ifrs-full_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition The amount of current financial liabilities. [Refer: Financial liabilities] + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Name IFRS -Number 7 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph 25 -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IFRS&num=7&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_25&doctype=Standard -URIDate 2019-03-27 + Details
Name: | ifrs-full_CurrentFinancialLiabilities
Namespace Prefix: | ifrs-full_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition The amount of liabilities that: (a) the entity expects to settle in its normal operating cycle; (b) the entity holds primarily for the purpose of trading; (c) are due to be settled within twelve months after the reporting period; or (d) the entity does not have an unconditional right to defer settlement for at least twelve months after the reporting period. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Name IFRS -Number 12 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph B12 -Subparagraph b -Clause iii -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IFRS&num=12&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_B12_b_iii&doctype=Appendix&subtype=B -URIDate 2019-03-27 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Name IAS -Number 1 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph 69 -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IAS&num=1&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_69&doctype=Standard -URIDate 2019-03-27 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/exampleRef -Name IFRS -Number 12 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph B10 -Subparagraph b -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IFRS&num=12&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_B10_b&doctype=Appendix&subtype=B -URIDate 2019-03-27 + Details
Name: | ifrs-full_CurrentLiabilities
Namespace Prefix: | ifrs-full_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition The amount of depreciation and amortisation expense. Depreciation and amortisation are the systematic allocations of depreciable amounts of assets over their useful lives. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Name IFRS -Number 8 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph 23 -Subparagraph e -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IFRS&num=8&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_23_e&doctype=Standard -URIDate 2019-03-27 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Name IFRS -Number 8 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph 28 -Subparagraph e -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IFRS&num=8&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_28_e&doctype=Standard -URIDate 2019-03-27 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Name IFRS -Number 12 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph B13 -Subparagraph d -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IFRS&num=12&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_B13_d&doctype=Appendix&subtype=B -URIDate 2019-03-27 Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/exampleRef -Name IAS -Number 1 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph 102 -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IAS&num=1&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_102&doctype=Standard -URIDate 2019-03-27 Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Name IAS -Number 1 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph 99 -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IAS&num=1&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_99&doctype=Standard -URIDate 2019-03-27 Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Name IAS -Number 1 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph 104 -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IAS&num=1&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_104&doctype=Standard -URIDate 2019-03-27 + Details
Name: | ifrs-full_DepreciationAndAmortisationExpense
Namespace Prefix: | ifrs-full_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Line items represent concepts included in a table. These concepts are used to disclose reportable information associated with domain members defined in one or many axes of the table. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | ifrs-full_DisclosureOfJointVenturesLineItems
Namespace Prefix: | ifrs-full_
Data Type: | xbrli:stringItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition The cash inflow representing dividends received from joint ventures, classified as investing activities. [Refer: Joint ventures [member]; Dividends received] + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/commonPracticeRef -Name IAS -Number 7 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph 16 -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IAS&num=7&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_16&doctype=Standard -URIDate 2019-03-27 + Details
Name: | ifrs-full_DividendsReceivedFromJointVenturesClassifiedAsInvestingActivities
Namespace Prefix: | ifrs-full_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition The amount of costs associated with financing activities of the entity. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Name IAS -Number 1 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph 82 -Subparagraph b -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IAS&num=1&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_82_b&doctype=Standard -URIDate 2019-03-27 + Details
Name: | ifrs-full_FinanceCosts
Namespace Prefix: | ifrs-full_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition The amount of revenue less cost of sales. [Refer: Cost of sales; Revenue] + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/exampleRef -Name IAS -Number 1 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph 103 -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IAS&num=1&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_103&doctype=Standard -URIDate 2019-03-27 + Details
Name: | ifrs-full_GrossProfit
Namespace Prefix: | ifrs-full_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition The aggregate amount included in the determination of profit (loss) for the period in respect of current tax and deferred tax. [Refer: Current tax expense (income); Deferred tax expense (income)] + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Name IFRS -Number 8 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph 23 -Subparagraph h -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IFRS&num=8&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_23_h&doctype=Standard -URIDate 2019-03-27 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Name IAS -Number 26 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph 35 -Subparagraph b -Clause viii -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IAS&num=26&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_35_b_viii&doctype=Standard -URIDate 2019-03-27 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Name IAS -Number 12 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph 79 -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IAS&num=12&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_79&doctype=Standard -URIDate 2019-03-27 Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Name IAS -Number 12 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph 81 -Subparagraph c -Clause i -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IAS&num=12&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_81_c_i&doctype=Standard -URIDate 2019-03-27 Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Name IAS -Number 1 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph 82 -Subparagraph d -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IAS&num=1&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_82_d&doctype=Standard -URIDate 2019-03-27 Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Name IAS -Number 12 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph 81 -Subparagraph c -Clause ii -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IAS&num=12&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_81_c_ii&doctype=Standard -URIDate 2019-03-27 Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Name IFRS -Number 12 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph B13 -Subparagraph g -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IFRS&num=12&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_B13_g&doctype=Appendix&subtype=B -URIDate 2019-03-27 + Details
Name: | ifrs-full_IncomeTaxExpenseContinuingOperations
Namespace Prefix: | ifrs-full_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition The amount of assets less the amount of liabilities. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/exampleRef -Name IFRS -Number 1 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph IG63 -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IFRS&num=1&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_IG63&doctype=Implementation%20Guidance -URIDate 2019-03-27 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/commonPracticeRef -Name IAS -Number 1 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph 112 -Subparagraph c -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IAS&num=1&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_112_c&doctype=Standard -URIDate 2019-03-27 + Details
Name: | ifrs-full_NetAssetsLiabilities
Namespace Prefix: | ifrs-full_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition The amount of assets that do not meet the definition of current assets. [Refer: Current assets] + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Name IAS -Number 1 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph 66 -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IAS&num=1&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_66&doctype=Standard -URIDate 2019-03-27 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Name IFRS -Number 12 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph B12 -Subparagraph b -Clause ii -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IFRS&num=12&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_B12_b_ii&doctype=Appendix&subtype=B -URIDate 2019-03-27 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/exampleRef -Name IFRS -Number 12 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph B10 -Subparagraph b -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IFRS&num=12&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_B10_b&doctype=Appendix&subtype=B -URIDate 2019-03-27 + Details
Name: | ifrs-full_NoncurrentAssets
Namespace Prefix: | ifrs-full_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition The amount of non-current financial liabilities. [Refer: Financial liabilities] + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Name IFRS -Number 7 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph 25 -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IFRS&num=7&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_25&doctype=Standard -URIDate 2019-03-27 + Details
Name: | ifrs-full_NoncurrentFinancialLiabilities
Namespace Prefix: | ifrs-full_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition The amount of liabilities that do not meet the definition of current liabilities. [Refer: Current liabilities] + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Name IFRS -Number 12 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph B12 -Subparagraph b -Clause iv -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IFRS&num=12&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_B12_b_iv&doctype=Appendix&subtype=B -URIDate 2019-03-27 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Name IAS -Number 1 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph 69 -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IAS&num=1&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_69&doctype=Standard -URIDate 2019-03-27 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/exampleRef -Name IFRS -Number 12 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph B10 -Subparagraph b -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IFRS&num=12&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_B10_b&doctype=Appendix&subtype=B -URIDate 2019-03-27 + Details
Name: | ifrs-full_NoncurrentLiabilities
Namespace Prefix: | ifrs-full_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition The amount of operating expense excluding the cost of sales. [Refer: Cost of sales] + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/commonPracticeRef -Name IAS -Number 1 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph 85 -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IAS&num=1&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_85&doctype=Standard -URIDate 2019-03-27 + Details
Name: | ifrs-full_OperatingExpenseExcludingCostOfSales
Namespace Prefix: | ifrs-full_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition The amount of income and expense (including reclassification adjustments) that is not recognised in profit or loss as required or permitted by IFRSs. [Refer: IFRSs [member]] + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Name IAS -Number 1 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph 106 -Subparagraph d -Clause ii -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IAS&num=1&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_106_d_ii&doctype=Standard -URIDate 2019-03-27 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Name IFRS -Number 12 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph B12 -Subparagraph b -Clause viii -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IFRS&num=12&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_B12_b_viii&doctype=Appendix&subtype=B -URIDate 2019-03-27 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Name IAS -Number 1 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph 81A -Subparagraph b -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IAS&num=1&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_81A_b&doctype=Standard -URIDate 2019-03-27 Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Name IAS -Number 1 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph 91 -Subparagraph a -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IAS&num=1&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_91_a&doctype=Standard -URIDate 2019-03-27 + Details
Name: | ifrs-full_OtherComprehensiveIncome
Namespace Prefix: | ifrs-full_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition The total of income less expenses from continuing and discontinued operations, excluding the components of other comprehensive income. [Refer: Other comprehensive income] + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Name IAS -Number 7 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph 18 -Subparagraph b -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IAS&num=7&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_18_b&doctype=Standard -URIDate 2019-03-27 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Name IFRS -Number 1 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph 24 -Subparagraph b -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IFRS&num=1&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_24_b&doctype=Standard -URIDate 2019-03-27 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Name IFRS -Number 1 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph 32 -Subparagraph a -Clause ii -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IFRS&num=1&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_32_a_ii&doctype=Standard -URIDate 2019-03-27 Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Name IFRS -Number 8 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph 28 -Subparagraph b -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IFRS&num=8&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_28_b&doctype=Standard -URIDate 2019-03-27 Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/exampleRef -Note Effective on first application of IFRS 9 -Name IFRS -Number 4 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph 39L -Subparagraph e -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IFRS&num=4&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-b&anchor=para_39L_e&doctype=Standard -URIDate 2019-03-27 Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Name IFRS -Number 8 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph 23 -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IFRS&num=8&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_23&doctype=Standard -URIDate 2019-03-27 Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/exampleRef -Name IFRS -Number 12 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph B10 -Subparagraph b -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IFRS&num=12&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_B10_b&doctype=Appendix&subtype=B -URIDate 2019-03-27 Reference 8: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Name IAS -Number 1 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph 106 -Subparagraph d -Clause i -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IAS&num=1&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_106_d_i&doctype=Standard -URIDate 2019-03-27 Reference 9: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/exampleRef -Note Effective 2021-01-01 -Name IFRS -Number 17 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph 113 -Subparagraph b -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IFRS&num=17&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_113_b&doctype=Standard -URIDate 2019-03-27 Reference 10: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Name IAS -Number 1 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph 81A -Subparagraph a -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IAS&num=1&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_81A_a&doctype=Standard -URIDate 2019-03-27 + Details
Name: | ifrs-full_ProfitLoss
Namespace Prefix: | ifrs-full_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Expiry date 2020-01-01: The income arising in the course of an entity's ordinary activities. Income is increases in economic benefits during the accounting period in the form of inflows or enhancements of assets or decreases of liabilities that result in an increase in equity, other than those relating to contributions from equity participants. Effective 2020-01-01: The income arising in the course of an entity's ordinary activities. Income is increases in assets, or decreases in liabilities, that result in increases in equity, other than those relating to contributions from holders of equity claims. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Name IFRS -Number 8 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph 28 -Subparagraph a -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IFRS&num=8&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_28_a&doctype=Standard -URIDate 2019-03-27 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Name IFRS -Number 8 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph 23 -Subparagraph a -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IFRS&num=8&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_23_a&doctype=Standard -URIDate 2019-03-27 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Name IFRS -Number 8 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph 32 -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IFRS&num=8&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_32&doctype=Standard -URIDate 2019-03-27 Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Name IFRS -Number 8 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph 33 -Subparagraph a -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IFRS&num=8&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_33_a&doctype=Standard -URIDate 2019-03-27 Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Name IFRS -Number 8 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph 34 -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IFRS&num=8&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_34&doctype=Standard -URIDate 2019-03-27 Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Name IAS -Number 1 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph 82 -Subparagraph a -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IAS&num=1&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_82_a&doctype=Standard -URIDate 2019-03-27 Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/exampleRef -Name IAS -Number 1 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph 103 -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IAS&num=1&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_103&doctype=Standard -URIDate 2019-03-27 Reference 8: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/exampleRef -Name IAS -Number 1 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph 102 -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IAS&num=1&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_102&doctype=Standard -URIDate 2019-03-27 Reference 9: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Name IFRS -Number 5 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph 33 -Subparagraph b -Clause i -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IFRS&num=5&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_33_b_i&doctype=Standard -URIDate 2019-03-27 Reference 10: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Name IFRS -Number 12 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph B12 -Subparagraph b -Clause v -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IFRS&num=12&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_B12_b_v&doctype=Appendix&subtype=B -URIDate 2019-03-27 Reference 11: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/exampleRef -Name IFRS -Number 12 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph B10 -Subparagraph b -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IFRS&num=12&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_B10_b&doctype=Appendix&subtype=B -URIDate 2019-03-27 + Details
Name: | ifrs-full_Revenue
Namespace Prefix: | ifrs-full_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Details
Name: | ifrs-full_JointVenturesAxis=rio_MineraEscondidaLimitadaMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | ifrs-full_JointVenturesAxis=rio_SoharAluminiumCoLlcMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |