XML 60 R52.htm IDEA: XBRL DOCUMENT
v3.20.2

Other disclosures - Subsidiaries financial information (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 6 Months Ended |  |
--- | --- | --- | ---
Jun. 30, 2020 | Jun. 30, 2019 | Dec. 31, 2020 | Dec. 31, 2019
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items] |  |  |  |  |  |
Consolidated sales revenue | $ 19,362 |  | $ 20,722 |  |  |
Profit after tax for the period | 3,451 |  | 2,931 |  |  |
– attributable to non-controlling interests | 135 |  | (1,199) |  |  |
– attributable to Rio Tinto | 3,316 |  | 4,130 |  |  |
Other comprehensive (loss)/income | (1,141) |  | (240) |  |  |
Total comprehensive income | 2,310 | [1] | 2,691 | [2] |  |
Non-current assets | 69,376 |  |  |  |  | $ 70,499
Current assets | 15,153 |  |  |  |  | 17,303
Current liabilities | (9,400) |  |  |  |  | (11,125)
Non-current liabilities | (31,473) |  |  |  |  | (31,435)
Net assets | 43,656 |  |  |  |  | 45,242
– attributable to non-controlling interests | 4,432 |  |  |  |  | 4,710
– attributable to Rio Tinto | 39,224 |  |  |  |  | 40,532
Cash flow from operations | 5,628 |  | 6,389 |  |  |
Dividends paid to holders of non-controlling interests in subsidiaries | (215) |  | (57) |  |  |
Borrowings | 12,604 |  |  |  |  | 12,806
Goodwill | 821 |  |  |  |  | 922
Iron Ore Company of Canada |  |  |  |  |  |
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items] |  |  |  |  |  |
Consolidated sales revenue | 1,011 |  | 1,027 |  |  |
Profit after tax for the period | 257 |  | 260 |  |  |
– attributable to non-controlling interests | 106 |  | 108 |  |  |
– attributable to Rio Tinto | 151 |  | 152 |  |  |
Other comprehensive (loss)/income | (91) |  | 51 |  |  |
Total comprehensive income | 166 |  | 311 |  |  |
Non-current assets | 2,397 |  |  |  |  | 2,585
Current assets | 741 |  |  |  |  | 610
Current liabilities | (394) |  |  |  |  | (532)
Non-current liabilities | (847) |  |  |  |  | (927)
Net assets | 1,897 |  |  |  |  | 1,736
– attributable to non-controlling interests | 787 |  |  |  |  | 718
– attributable to Rio Tinto | 1,110 |  |  |  |  | 1,018
Cash flow from operations | 403 |  | 509 |  |  |
Dividends paid to holders of non-controlling interests in subsidiaries | 0 |  | (52) |  |  |
Energy Resources of Australia Limited |  |  |  |  |  |
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items] |  |  |  |  |  |
Consolidated sales revenue | 108 |  | 118 |  |  |
Profit after tax for the period | 27 |  | 36 |  |  |
– attributable to non-controlling interests | 6 |  | 11 |  |  |
– attributable to Rio Tinto | 21 |  | 25 |  |  |
Other comprehensive (loss)/income | 22 |  | 1 |  |  |
Total comprehensive income | 49 |  | 37 |  |  |
Non-current assets | 393 |  |  |  |  | 76
Current assets | 270 |  |  |  |  | 258
Current liabilities | (131) |  |  |  |  | (127)
Non-current liabilities | (428) |  |  |  |  | (462)
Net assets | 104 |  |  |  |  | (255)
– attributable to non-controlling interests | 19 |  |  |  |  | 0
– attributable to Rio Tinto | 85 |  |  |  |  | (255)
Cash flow from operations | 17 |  | 23 |  |  |
Dividends paid to holders of non-controlling interests in subsidiaries | 0 |  | 0 |  |  |
Turquoise Hill |  |  |  |  |  |
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items] |  |  |  |  |  |
Consolidated sales revenue | 409 |  | 735 |  |  |
Profit after tax for the period | (23) |  | (2,054) |  |  |
– attributable to non-controlling interests | (89) |  | (1,413) |  |  |
– attributable to Rio Tinto | 66 |  | (641) |  |  |
Other comprehensive (loss)/income | (2) |  | 1 |  |  |
Total comprehensive income | (25) |  | (2,053) |  |  |
Non-current assets | 10,155 |  |  |  |  | 9,589
Current assets | 1,793 |  |  |  |  | 2,449
Current liabilities | (457) |  |  |  |  | (493)
Non-current liabilities | (4,375) |  |  |  |  | (4,405)
Net assets | 7,116 |  |  |  |  | 7,140
– attributable to non-controlling interests | 2,240 |  |  |  |  | 2,369
– attributable to Rio Tinto | 4,876 |  |  |  |  | 4,771
Cash flow from operations | 29 |  | 287 |  |  |
Dividends paid to holders of non-controlling interests in subsidiaries | 0 |  | 0 |  |  |
Robe River Mining Co Pty Ltd |  |  |  |  |  |
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items] |  |  |  |  |  |
Consolidated sales revenue | 734 |  | 614 |  |  |
Profit after tax for the period | 403 |  | 344 |  |  |
– attributable to non-controlling interests | 158 |  | 134 |  |  |
– attributable to Rio Tinto | 245 |  | 210 |  |  |
Other comprehensive (loss)/income | (88) |  | (18) |  |  |
Total comprehensive income | 315 |  | 326 |  |  |
Non-current assets | 2,979 |  |  |  |  | 2,945
Current assets | 1,124 |  |  |  |  | 1,161
Current liabilities | (705) |  |  |  |  | (204)
Non-current liabilities | (365) |  |  |  |  | (376)
Net assets | 3,033 |  |  |  |  | 3,526
– attributable to non-controlling interests | 1,210 |  |  |  |  | 1,404
– attributable to Rio Tinto | 1,823 |  |  |  |  | 2,122
Cash flow from operations | 665 |  | 528 |  |  |
Dividends paid to holders of non-controlling interests in subsidiaries | (211) |  | 0 |  |  |
Other Companies And Eliminations |  |  |  |  |  |
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items] |  |  |  |  |  |
Consolidated sales revenue | 851 |  | 716 |  |  |
Profit after tax for the period | 424 |  | 338 |  |  |
– attributable to non-controlling interests | 0 |  | 0 |  |  |
– attributable to Rio Tinto | 424 |  | 338 |  |  |
Other comprehensive (loss)/income | (38) |  | (11) |  |  |
Total comprehensive income | 386 |  | 327 |  |  |
Non-current assets | 3,673 |  |  |  |  | 3,687
Current assets | 2,668 |  |  |  |  | 2,531
Current liabilities | (859) |  |  |  |  | (303)
Non-current liabilities | (3,495) |  |  |  |  | (4,050)
Net assets | 1,987 |  |  |  |  | 1,865
– attributable to non-controlling interests | 0 |  |  |  |  | 0
– attributable to Rio Tinto | 1,987 |  |  |  |  | 1,865
Cash flow from operations | 1,066 |  | 920 |  |  |
Dividends paid to holders of non-controlling interests in subsidiaries | 0 |  | 0 |  |  |
Robe river iron associates |  |  |  |  |  |
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items] |  |  |  |  |  |
Consolidated sales revenue | 1,585 |  | 1,330 |  |  |
Profit after tax for the period | 827 |  | 682 |  |  |
– attributable to non-controlling interests | 158 |  | 134 |  |  |
– attributable to Rio Tinto | 669 |  | 548 |  |  |
Other comprehensive (loss)/income | (126) |  | (29) |  |  |
Total comprehensive income | 701 |  | 653 |  |  |
Non-current assets | 6,652 |  |  |  |  | 6,632
Current assets | 3,792 |  |  |  |  | 3,692
Current liabilities | (1,564) |  |  |  |  | (507)
Non-current liabilities | (3,860) |  |  |  |  | (4,426)
Net assets | 5,020 |  |  |  |  | 5,391
– attributable to non-controlling interests | 1,210 |  |  |  |  | 1,404
– attributable to Rio Tinto | 3,810 |  |  |  |  | 3,987
Cash flow from operations | 1,731 |  | 1,448 |  |  |
Dividends paid to holders of non-controlling interests in subsidiaries | (211) |  | $ 0 |  |  |
North Mining Limited | Robe river iron associates |  |  |  |  |  |
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items] |  |  |  |  |  |
Goodwill | 342 |  |  |  |  | 349
Amended and Restated Shareholders Agreement, Amended June 08, 2011 | Erdenes Oyu Tolgoi LLC |  |  |  |  |  |
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items] |  |  |  |  |  |
Borrowings | 1,327 |  |  |  | $ 1,241 |
Interest receivable | $ 734 |  |  |  |  | $ 655
Amended and Restated Shareholders Agreement, Amended June 08, 2011 | Erdenes Oyu Tolgoi LLC | Floating interest rate |  |  |  |  |  |
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items] |  |  |  |  |  |
Borrowings, interest rate basis | 6.50% |  |  |  |  |
[1] | Refer to Group statement of comprehensive income for further details.
[2] | Refer to Group statement of comprehensive income for further details.

X
- Definition The amount of outstanding funds that the entity is obligated to repay. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/commonPracticeRef -Name IAS -Number 1 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph 55 -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IAS&num=1&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_55&doctype=Standard -URIDate 2019-03-27 + Details
Name: | ifrs-full_Borrowings
Namespace Prefix: | ifrs-full_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition The adjustment to the basis (reference rate) used for calculation of the interest rate on borrowings. [Refer: Borrowings] + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/commonPracticeRef -Name IFRS -Number 7 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph 7 -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IFRS&num=7&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_7&doctype=Standard -URIDate 2019-03-27 + Details
Name: | ifrs-full_BorrowingsAdjustmentToInterestRateBasis
Namespace Prefix: | ifrs-full_
Data Type: | num:percentItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition The cash flows from (used in) operating activities, which are the principal revenue-producing activities of the entity and other activities that are not investing or financing activities. [Refer: Revenue] + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Name IAS -Number 7 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph 10 -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IAS&num=7&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_10&doctype=Standard -URIDate 2019-03-27 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Name IAS -Number 7 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph 50 -Subparagraph d -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IAS&num=7&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_50_d&doctype=Standard -URIDate 2019-03-27 + Details
Name: | ifrs-full_CashFlowsFromUsedInOperatingActivities
Namespace Prefix: | ifrs-full_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

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 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 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_DisclosureOfSignificantInvestmentsInSubsidiariesLineItems
Namespace Prefix: | ifrs-full_
Data Type: | xbrli:stringItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition The amount of dividends paid to non-controlling interests. [Refer: Non-controlling interests] + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Name IFRS -Number 12 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph B10 -Subparagraph a -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IFRS&num=12&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_B10_a&doctype=Appendix&subtype=B -URIDate 2019-03-27 + Details
Name: | ifrs-full_DividendsPaidToNoncontrollingInterests
Namespace Prefix: | ifrs-full_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition The amount of equity attributable to the owners of the parent. This specifically excludes non-controlling interest. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Name IAS -Number 1 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph 54 -Subparagraph r -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IAS&num=1&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_54_r&doctype=Standard -URIDate 2019-03-27 + Details
Name: | ifrs-full_EquityAttributableToOwnersOfParent
Namespace Prefix: | ifrs-full_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition The amount of assets representing the future economic benefits arising from other assets acquired in a business combination that are not individually identified and separately recognised. [Refer: Business combinations [member]] + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Name IFRS -Number 3 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph B67 -Subparagraph d -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IFRS&num=3&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_B67_d&doctype=Appendix&subtype=B -URIDate 2019-03-27 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Name IAS -Number 36 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph 134 -Subparagraph a -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IAS&num=36&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_134_a&doctype=Standard -URIDate 2019-03-27 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Name IAS -Number 36 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph 135 -Subparagraph a -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IAS&num=36&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_135_a&doctype=Standard -URIDate 2019-03-27 Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Name IAS -Number 1 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph 54 -Subparagraph c -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IAS&num=1&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_54_c&doctype=Standard -URIDate 2019-03-27 + Details
Name: | ifrs-full_Goodwill
Namespace Prefix: | ifrs-full_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition The amount of interest recognised as a receivable. + References Reference 1: 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_InterestReceivable
Namespace Prefix: | ifrs-full_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | instant

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 equity in a subsidiary not attributable, directly or indirectly, to a parent. [Refer: Subsidiaries [member]] + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Name IFRS -Number 12 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph 12 -Subparagraph f -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IFRS&num=12&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_12_f&doctype=Standard -URIDate 2019-03-27 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Name IAS -Number 1 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph 54 -Subparagraph q -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IAS&num=1&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_54_q&doctype=Standard -URIDate 2019-03-27 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Name IFRS -Number 10 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph 22 -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IFRS&num=10&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_22&doctype=Standard -URIDate 2019-03-27 + Details
Name: | ifrs-full_NoncontrollingInterests
Namespace Prefix: | ifrs-full_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
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 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 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 The profit (loss) from continuing and discontinued operations attributable to non-controlling interests. [Refer: Profit (loss); Non-controlling interests] + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Name IFRS -Number 12 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph 12 -Subparagraph e -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IFRS&num=12&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_12_e&doctype=Standard -URIDate 2019-03-27 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Name IAS -Number 1 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph 81B -Subparagraph a -Clause i -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IAS&num=1&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_81B_a_i&doctype=Standard -URIDate 2019-03-27 + Details
Name: | ifrs-full_ProfitLossAttributableToNoncontrollingInterests
Namespace Prefix: | ifrs-full_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition The profit (loss) from continuing and discontinued operations attributable to owners of the parent. [Refer: Profit (loss)] + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Name IAS -Number 1 -IssueDate 2019-01-01 -Paragraph 81B -Subparagraph a -Clause ii -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IAS&num=1&code=ifrs-tx-2019-en-r&anchor=para_81B_a_ii&doctype=Standard -URIDate 2019-03-27 + Details
Name: | ifrs-full_ProfitLossAttributableToOwnersOfParent
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_SignificantInvestmentsInSubsidiariesAxis=rio_IronOreCompanyOfCanadaMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | ifrs-full_SignificantInvestmentsInSubsidiariesAxis=rio_EnergyResourcesOfAustraliaMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | ifrs-full_SignificantInvestmentsInSubsidiariesAxis=rio_TurquoiseHillMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | ifrs-full_SignificantInvestmentsInSubsidiariesAxis=rio_RobeRiverMiningCoPtyLtdMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | ifrs-full_SignificantInvestmentsInSubsidiariesAxis=rio_OtherCompaniesAndEliminationsMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | ifrs-full_SignificantInvestmentsInSubsidiariesAxis=rio_RobeRiverIronAssociatesMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | ifrs-full_SignificantInvestmentsInSubsidiariesAxis=rio_NorthMiningLimitedMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | ifrs-full_BusinessCombinationsAxis=rio_RobeRiverIronAssociatesMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | ifrs-full_TypesOfSharebasedPaymentArrangementsAxis=rio_AmendedandRestatedShareholdersAgreementAmendedJune082011Member
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | ifrs-full_SignificantInvestmentsInSubsidiariesAxis=rio_ErdenesOyuTolgoiLlcMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | ifrs-full_TypesOfInterestRatesAxis=ifrs-full_FloatingInterestRateMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |