BHP Billiton Ltd (BHP Group) v. The Commonwealth

BHP Billiton Ltd (now BHP Group) v. The Commonwealth was a legal case in Australia concerning the application of the Mineral Resources Rent Tax (MRRT) imposed by the federal government. BHP challenged the tax, arguing it was unconstitutional because it treated mining companies unfairly and violated property rights. The High Court ultimately ruled in favor of the Commonwealth, affirming the government's authority to impose such taxes. This case highlighted issues around taxation, resource ownership, and the powers of government versus private corporations in Australia’s legal framework.