The successful replacement of the Line 1 furnace at Cerro Matoso (Colombia) in the September 2011 quarter led to an increase in annual nickel production.

Underlying EBIT for the 2012 financial year decreased by USD 556 million to USD 32 million. A 22% decline in the average realized nickel price reduced Underlying EBIT by USD 584 million, net of price linked costs.

At Nickel West Mt Keith, a reduction in mining activity and the commissioning of the Talc Redesign project delivered tangible cost benefits during the period. Construction of the new Kwinana hydrogen plant (Australia) was also completed in the 2012 financial year.

Source - BHP Billiton

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