<?xml version="1.0" encoding="utf-8"?>
<linkbase xsi:schemaLocation="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase http://www.xbrl.org/2003/xbrl-linkbase-2003-12-31.xsd" xmlns:xsi="http://www.w3.org/2001/XMLSchema-instance" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
  <roleRef roleURI="http://south32limited.com/xbrl/2021/roles/Anchoring" xlink:href="south32limited-2022-06-30.xsd#Anchoring" xlink:type="simple" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink" />
  <roleRef roleURI="http://www.esma.europa.eu/xbrl/role/cor/esef_role-999999" xlink:href="http://www.esma.europa.eu/taxonomy/2021-03-24/esef_cor.xsd#esef_role-999999" xlink:type="simple" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink" />
  <roleRef roleURI="http://south32limited.com/xbrl/2021/roles/StatementOfChangesInEquity" xlink:href="south32limited-2022-06-30.xsd#StatementOfChangesInEquity" xlink:type="simple" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink" />
  <arcroleRef arcroleURI="http://www.esma.europa.eu/xbrl/esef/arcrole/wider-narrower" xlink:href="http://www.xbrl.org/lrr/arcrole/esma-arcrole-2018-11-21.xsd#wider-narrower" xlink:type="simple" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink" />
  <arcroleRef arcroleURI="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:href="http://www.xbrl.org/2005/xbrldt-2005.xsd#domain-member" xlink:type="simple" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink" />
  <arcroleRef arcroleURI="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:href="http://www.xbrl.org/2005/xbrldt-2005.xsd#dimension-domain" xlink:type="simple" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink" />
  <arcroleRef arcroleURI="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:href="http://www.xbrl.org/2005/xbrldt-2005.xsd#hypercube-dimension" xlink:type="simple" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink" />
  <arcroleRef arcroleURI="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:href="http://www.xbrl.org/2005/xbrldt-2005.xsd#all" xlink:type="simple" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink" />
  <arcroleRef arcroleURI="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:href="http://www.xbrl.org/2005/xbrldt-2005.xsd#dimension-default" xlink:type="simple" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink" />
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://south32limited.com/xbrl/2021/roles/Anchoring" xlink:type="extended" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_PaymentsToAcquireOrRedeemEntitysShares" xlink:label="ifrs-full_PaymentsToAcquireOrRedeemEntitysShares" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="south32limited-2022-06-30.xsd#south32limited_ExpensesExcludingNetFinanceCosts" xlink:label="south32limited_ExpensesExcludingNetFinanceCosts" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="south32limited-2022-06-30.xsd#south32limited_PurchaseOfSharesByEmployeeShareOwnershipPlanESOPTrustsRelatingToFinancingActivities" xlink:label="south32limited_PurchaseOfSharesByEmployeeShareOwnershipPlanESOPTrustsRelatingToFinancingActivities" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="south32limited-2022-06-30.xsd#south32limited_AdjustmentsForLossOnDisposalOfADiscontinuedOperation" xlink:label="south32limited_AdjustmentsForLossOnDisposalOfADiscontinuedOperation" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_DividendsReceivedClassifiedAsOperatingActivities" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DividendsReceivedClassifiedAsOperatingActivities" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_AdjustmentsForImpairmentLossReversalOfImpairmentLossRecognisedInProfitOrLoss" xlink:label="ifrs-full_AdjustmentsForImpairmentLossReversalOfImpairmentLossRecognisedInProfitOrLoss" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="south32limited-2022-06-30.xsd#south32limited_ProfitLossBeforeTaxFromADiscontinuedOperation" xlink:label="south32limited_ProfitLossBeforeTaxFromADiscontinuedOperation" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="south32limited-2022-06-30.xsd#south32limited_ExplorationExpenditureRelatingToInvestingActivities" xlink:label="south32limited_ExplorationExpenditureRelatingToInvestingActivities" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_AdjustmentsForUndistributedProfitsOfInvestmentsAccountedForUsingEquityMethod" xlink:label="ifrs-full_AdjustmentsForUndistributedProfitsOfInvestmentsAccountedForUsingEquityMethod" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="south32limited-2022-06-30.xsd#south32limited_ProfitLossFromContinuingOperationsThirdPartyProductsAndServices" xlink:label="south32limited_ProfitLossFromContinuingOperationsThirdPartyProductsAndServices" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="south32limited-2022-06-30.xsd#south32limited_ProceedsFromSaleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentAndIntangiblesRelatingToInvestingActivities" xlink:label="south32limited_ProceedsFromSaleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentAndIntangiblesRelatingToInvestingActivities" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="south32limited-2022-06-30.xsd#south32limited_AdjustmentsForShareOfProfitLossOfEquityAccountedInvestments" xlink:label="south32limited_AdjustmentsForShareOfProfitLossOfEquityAccountedInvestments" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="south32limited-2022-06-30.xsd#south32limited_ShareBuyBackRelatingToFinancingActivities" xlink:label="south32limited_ShareBuyBackRelatingToFinancingActivities" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="south32limited-2022-06-30.xsd#south32limited_ProceedsFromFinancialAssetsRelatingToInvestingActivities" xlink:label="south32limited_ProceedsFromFinancialAssetsRelatingToInvestingActivities" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_Revenue" xlink:label="ifrs-full_Revenue" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="south32limited-2022-06-30.xsd#south32limited_AdjustmentsForOtherNonCashOrNonOperatingItems" xlink:label="south32limited_AdjustmentsForOtherNonCashOrNonOperatingItems" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_OtherExpenseByNature" xlink:label="ifrs-full_OtherExpenseByNature" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="south32limited-2022-06-30.xsd#south32limited_InvestmentInFinancialAssetsRelatingToInvestingActivities" xlink:label="south32limited_InvestmentInFinancialAssetsRelatingToInvestingActivities" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="south32limited-2022-06-30.xsd#south32limited_EmployeeShareAwardsVestedAndLapsedNetOfTax" xlink:label="south32limited_EmployeeShareAwardsVestedAndLapsedNetOfTax" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_ProfitLossBeforeTax" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ProfitLossBeforeTax" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="south32limited-2022-06-30.xsd#south32limited_AdjustmentsForNonCashOrNonOperatingSignificantItems" xlink:label="south32limited_AdjustmentsForNonCashOrNonOperatingSignificantItems" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="south32limited-2022-06-30.xsd#south32limited_TransferOfCumulativeFairValueLossOnAnInvestmentInEquityInstrumentsDesignatedAsFVOCI" xlink:label="south32limited_TransferOfCumulativeFairValueLossOnAnInvestmentInEquityInstrumentsDesignatedAsFVOCI" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="south32limited-2022-06-30.xsd#south32limited_EmployeeShareEntitlementsForUnvestedAwardsNetOfTax" xlink:label="south32limited_EmployeeShareEntitlementsForUnvestedAwardsNetOfTax" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="south32limited-2022-06-30.xsd#south32limited_AdjustmentsForNetImpairmentLossReversalOfNonFinancialAssets" xlink:label="south32limited_AdjustmentsForNetImpairmentLossReversalOfNonFinancialAssets" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_ProceedsFromSalesOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentClassifiedAsInvestingActivities" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ProceedsFromSalesOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentClassifiedAsInvestingActivities" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_IncreaseDecreaseThroughSharebasedPaymentTransactions" xlink:label="ifrs-full_IncreaseDecreaseThroughSharebasedPaymentTransactions" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="south32limited-2022-06-30.xsd#south32limited_ExplorationExpenditureExpensedAndIncludedInOperatingCashFlows" xlink:label="south32limited_ExplorationExpenditureExpensedAndIncludedInOperatingCashFlows" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_Equity" xlink:label="ifrs-full_Equity" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_AdjustmentsForReconcileProfitLoss" xlink:label="ifrs-full_AdjustmentsForReconcileProfitLoss" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="south32limited-2022-06-30.xsd#south32limited_CashOutflowsFromInvestingActivities" xlink:label="south32limited_CashOutflowsFromInvestingActivities" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_ProceedsFromSalesOfIntangibleAssetsClassifiedAsInvestingActivities" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ProceedsFromSalesOfIntangibleAssetsClassifiedAsInvestingActivities" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="south32limited-2022-06-30.xsd#south32limited_AcquisitionOfSubsidiariesAndJointOperationsNetOfTheirCash" xlink:label="south32limited_AcquisitionOfSubsidiariesAndJointOperationsNetOfTheirCash" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="south32limited-2022-06-30.xsd#south32limited_ProfitLossFromContinuingOperationsGroupProduction" xlink:label="south32limited_ProfitLossFromContinuingOperationsGroupProduction" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="south32limited-2022-06-30.xsd#south32limited_RevenueThirdPartyProductsAndServices" xlink:label="south32limited_RevenueThirdPartyProductsAndServices" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="south32limited-2022-06-30.xsd#south32limited_RevenueGroupProduction" xlink:label="south32limited_RevenueGroupProduction" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_OtherAdjustmentsForNoncashItems" xlink:label="ifrs-full_OtherAdjustmentsForNoncashItems" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_ProfitLossFromOperatingActivities" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ProfitLossFromOperatingActivities" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="south32limited-2022-06-30.xsd#south32limited_CommonControlTransactionReserveIncludedWithinOtherReserves" xlink:label="south32limited_CommonControlTransactionReserveIncludedWithinOtherReserves" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="south32limited-2022-06-30.xsd#south32limited_AdjustmentsForNetImpairmentLossReversalOfFinancialAssets" xlink:label="south32limited_AdjustmentsForNetImpairmentLossReversalOfFinancialAssets" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="south32limited-2022-06-30.xsd#south32limited_DividendsReceivedFromEquityAccountedInvestmentsRelatingToOperatingActivities" xlink:label="south32limited_DividendsReceivedFromEquityAccountedInvestmentsRelatingToOperatingActivities" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="south32limited-2022-06-30.xsd#south32limited_SharesBoughtBackAndCancelled" xlink:label="south32limited_SharesBoughtBackAndCancelled" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_CashFlowsFromUsedInInvestingActivities" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CashFlowsFromUsedInInvestingActivities" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_OtherAdjustmentsForWhichCashEffectsAreInvestingOrFinancingCashFlow" xlink:label="ifrs-full_OtherAdjustmentsForWhichCashEffectsAreInvestingOrFinancingCashFlow" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_ChangesInEquity" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ChangesInEquity" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_Revenue" xlink:to="south32limited_RevenueGroupProduction" order="1" xlink:arcrole="http://www.esma.europa.eu/xbrl/esef/arcrole/wider-narrower" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_Revenue" xlink:to="south32limited_RevenueThirdPartyProductsAndServices" order="1" xlink:arcrole="http://www.esma.europa.eu/xbrl/esef/arcrole/wider-narrower" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_OtherExpenseByNature" xlink:to="south32limited_ExpensesExcludingNetFinanceCosts" order="1" xlink:arcrole="http://www.esma.europa.eu/xbrl/esef/arcrole/wider-narrower" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ProfitLossFromOperatingActivities" xlink:to="south32limited_ProfitLossFromContinuingOperationsGroupProduction" order="1" xlink:arcrole="http://www.esma.europa.eu/xbrl/esef/arcrole/wider-narrower" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ProfitLossFromOperatingActivities" xlink:to="south32limited_ProfitLossFromContinuingOperationsThirdPartyProductsAndServices" order="1" xlink:arcrole="http://www.esma.europa.eu/xbrl/esef/arcrole/wider-narrower" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ProfitLossBeforeTax" xlink:to="south32limited_ProfitLossBeforeTaxFromADiscontinuedOperation" order="1" xlink:arcrole="http://www.esma.europa.eu/xbrl/esef/arcrole/wider-narrower" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_OtherAdjustmentsForNoncashItems" xlink:to="south32limited_AdjustmentsForNonCashOrNonOperatingSignificantItems" order="1" xlink:arcrole="http://www.esma.europa.eu/xbrl/esef/arcrole/wider-narrower" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="south32limited_AdjustmentsForNonCashOrNonOperatingSignificantItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_OtherAdjustmentsForWhichCashEffectsAreInvestingOrFinancingCashFlow" order="2" xlink:arcrole="http://www.esma.europa.eu/xbrl/esef/arcrole/wider-narrower" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_AdjustmentsForImpairmentLossReversalOfImpairmentLossRecognisedInProfitOrLoss" xlink:to="south32limited_AdjustmentsForNetImpairmentLossReversalOfFinancialAssets" order="1" xlink:arcrole="http://www.esma.europa.eu/xbrl/esef/arcrole/wider-narrower" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_AdjustmentsForImpairmentLossReversalOfImpairmentLossRecognisedInProfitOrLoss" xlink:to="south32limited_AdjustmentsForNetImpairmentLossReversalOfNonFinancialAssets" order="1" xlink:arcrole="http://www.esma.europa.eu/xbrl/esef/arcrole/wider-narrower" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_AdjustmentsForUndistributedProfitsOfInvestmentsAccountedForUsingEquityMethod" xlink:to="south32limited_AdjustmentsForShareOfProfitLossOfEquityAccountedInvestments" order="1" xlink:arcrole="http://www.esma.europa.eu/xbrl/esef/arcrole/wider-narrower" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_AdjustmentsForReconcileProfitLoss" xlink:to="south32limited_AdjustmentsForLossOnDisposalOfADiscontinuedOperation" order="1" xlink:arcrole="http://www.esma.europa.eu/xbrl/esef/arcrole/wider-narrower" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_OtherAdjustmentsForNoncashItems" xlink:to="south32limited_AdjustmentsForOtherNonCashOrNonOperatingItems" order="1" xlink:arcrole="http://www.esma.europa.eu/xbrl/esef/arcrole/wider-narrower" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="south32limited_AdjustmentsForOtherNonCashOrNonOperatingItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_OtherAdjustmentsForWhichCashEffectsAreInvestingOrFinancingCashFlow" order="2" xlink:arcrole="http://www.esma.europa.eu/xbrl/esef/arcrole/wider-narrower" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_DividendsReceivedClassifiedAsOperatingActivities" xlink:to="south32limited_DividendsReceivedFromEquityAccountedInvestmentsRelatingToOperatingActivities" order="1" xlink:arcrole="http://www.esma.europa.eu/xbrl/esef/arcrole/wider-narrower" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_CashFlowsFromUsedInInvestingActivities" xlink:to="south32limited_ExplorationExpenditureRelatingToInvestingActivities" order="1" xlink:arcrole="http://www.esma.europa.eu/xbrl/esef/arcrole/wider-narrower" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_CashFlowsFromUsedInInvestingActivities" xlink:to="south32limited_ExplorationExpenditureExpensedAndIncludedInOperatingCashFlows" order="1" xlink:arcrole="http://www.esma.europa.eu/xbrl/esef/arcrole/wider-narrower" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_CashFlowsFromUsedInInvestingActivities" xlink:to="south32limited_InvestmentInFinancialAssetsRelatingToInvestingActivities" order="1" xlink:arcrole="http://www.esma.europa.eu/xbrl/esef/arcrole/wider-narrower" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_CashFlowsFromUsedInInvestingActivities" xlink:to="south32limited_AcquisitionOfSubsidiariesAndJointOperationsNetOfTheirCash" order="1" xlink:arcrole="http://www.esma.europa.eu/xbrl/esef/arcrole/wider-narrower" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_CashFlowsFromUsedInInvestingActivities" xlink:to="south32limited_CashOutflowsFromInvestingActivities" order="1" xlink:arcrole="http://www.esma.europa.eu/xbrl/esef/arcrole/wider-narrower" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_CashFlowsFromUsedInInvestingActivities" xlink:to="south32limited_ProceedsFromSaleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentAndIntangiblesRelatingToInvestingActivities" order="1" xlink:arcrole="http://www.esma.europa.eu/xbrl/esef/arcrole/wider-narrower" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="south32limited_ProceedsFromSaleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentAndIntangiblesRelatingToInvestingActivities" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ProceedsFromSalesOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentClassifiedAsInvestingActivities" order="2" xlink:arcrole="http://www.esma.europa.eu/xbrl/esef/arcrole/wider-narrower" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="south32limited_ProceedsFromSaleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentAndIntangiblesRelatingToInvestingActivities" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ProceedsFromSalesOfIntangibleAssetsClassifiedAsInvestingActivities" order="3" xlink:arcrole="http://www.esma.europa.eu/xbrl/esef/arcrole/wider-narrower" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_CashFlowsFromUsedInInvestingActivities" xlink:to="south32limited_ProceedsFromFinancialAssetsRelatingToInvestingActivities" order="1" xlink:arcrole="http://www.esma.europa.eu/xbrl/esef/arcrole/wider-narrower" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_PaymentsToAcquireOrRedeemEntitysShares" xlink:to="south32limited_PurchaseOfSharesByEmployeeShareOwnershipPlanESOPTrustsRelatingToFinancingActivities" order="1" xlink:arcrole="http://www.esma.europa.eu/xbrl/esef/arcrole/wider-narrower" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_PaymentsToAcquireOrRedeemEntitysShares" xlink:to="south32limited_ShareBuyBackRelatingToFinancingActivities" order="1" xlink:arcrole="http://www.esma.europa.eu/xbrl/esef/arcrole/wider-narrower" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ChangesInEquity" xlink:to="south32limited_SharesBoughtBackAndCancelled" order="1" xlink:arcrole="http://www.esma.europa.eu/xbrl/esef/arcrole/wider-narrower" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_IncreaseDecreaseThroughSharebasedPaymentTransactions" xlink:to="south32limited_EmployeeShareEntitlementsForUnvestedAwardsNetOfTax" order="1" xlink:arcrole="http://www.esma.europa.eu/xbrl/esef/arcrole/wider-narrower" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_IncreaseDecreaseThroughSharebasedPaymentTransactions" xlink:to="south32limited_EmployeeShareAwardsVestedAndLapsedNetOfTax" order="1" xlink:arcrole="http://www.esma.europa.eu/xbrl/esef/arcrole/wider-narrower" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ChangesInEquity" xlink:to="south32limited_TransferOfCumulativeFairValueLossOnAnInvestmentInEquityInstrumentsDesignatedAsFVOCI" order="1" xlink:arcrole="http://www.esma.europa.eu/xbrl/esef/arcrole/wider-narrower" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_Equity" xlink:to="south32limited_CommonControlTransactionReserveIncludedWithinOtherReserves" order="1" xlink:arcrole="http://www.esma.europa.eu/xbrl/esef/arcrole/wider-narrower" priority="1" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.esma.europa.eu/xbrl/role/cor/esef_role-999999" xlink:type="extended" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_ShareOfProfitLossOfAssociatesAndJointVenturesAccountedForUsingEquityMethod" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ShareOfProfitLossOfAssociatesAndJointVenturesAccountedForUsingEquityMethod" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_NoncurrentAssets" xlink:label="ifrs-full_NoncurrentAssets" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="south32limited-2022-06-30.xsd#south32limited_AdjustmentsForShareOfProfitLossOfEquityAccountedInvestments" xlink:label="south32limited_AdjustmentsForShareOfProfitLossOfEquityAccountedInvestments" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="south32limited-2022-06-30.xsd#south32limited_AdjustmentsForNetImpairmentLossReversalOfNonFinancialAssets" xlink:label="south32limited_AdjustmentsForNetImpairmentLossReversalOfNonFinancialAssets" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_NoncurrentLiabilities" xlink:label="ifrs-full_NoncurrentLiabilities" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_BasicEarningsLossPerShare" xlink:label="ifrs-full_BasicEarningsLossPerShare" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="south32limited-2022-06-30.xsd#south32limited_AdjustmentsForNetImpairmentLossReversalOfFinancialAssets" xlink:label="south32limited_AdjustmentsForNetImpairmentLossReversalOfFinancialAssets" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_NoncurrentProvisions" xlink:label="ifrs-full_NoncurrentProvisions" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_OtherNoncurrentFinancialLiabilities" xlink:label="ifrs-full_OtherNoncurrentFinancialLiabilities" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_NoncurrentDeferredIncomeOtherThanNoncurrentContractLiabilities" xlink:label="ifrs-full_NoncurrentDeferredIncomeOtherThanNoncurrentContractLiabilities" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="south32limited-2022-06-30.xsd#south32limited_ExpensesExcludingNetFinanceCosts" xlink:label="south32limited_ExpensesExcludingNetFinanceCosts" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_AddressOfRegisteredOfficeOfEntity" xlink:label="ifrs-full_AddressOfRegisteredOfficeOfEntity" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_CurrentProvisions" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CurrentProvisions" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_IncomeTaxExpenseContinuingOperations" xlink:label="ifrs-full_IncomeTaxExpenseContinuingOperations" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="south32limited-2022-06-30.xsd#south32limited_InvestmentInFinancialAssetsRelatingToInvestingActivities" xlink:label="south32limited_InvestmentInFinancialAssetsRelatingToInvestingActivities" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_ShareOfOtherComprehensiveIncomeOfAssociatesAndJointVenturesAccountedForUsingEquityMethodThatWillNotBeReclassifiedToProfitOrLossNetOfTax" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ShareOfOtherComprehensiveIncomeOfAssociatesAndJointVenturesAccountedForUsingEquityMethodThatWillNotBeReclassifiedToProfitOrLossNetOfTax" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_IntangibleAssetsAndGoodwill" xlink:label="ifrs-full_IntangibleAssetsAndGoodwill" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_BasicEarningsLossPerShareFromContinuingOperations" xlink:label="ifrs-full_BasicEarningsLossPerShareFromContinuingOperations" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_OtherComprehensiveIncomeThatWillNotBeReclassifiedToProfitOrLossNetOfTax" xlink:label="ifrs-full_OtherComprehensiveIncomeThatWillNotBeReclassifiedToProfitOrLossNetOfTax" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_DividendsPaidClassifiedAsFinancingActivities" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DividendsPaidClassifiedAsFinancingActivities" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_DividendsReceivedClassifiedAsOperatingActivities" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DividendsReceivedClassifiedAsOperatingActivities" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_InterestPaidClassifiedAsOperatingActivities" xlink:label="ifrs-full_InterestPaidClassifiedAsOperatingActivities" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_IncomeTaxesPaidRefundClassifiedAsOperatingActivities" xlink:label="ifrs-full_IncomeTaxesPaidRefundClassifiedAsOperatingActivities" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="south32limited-2022-06-30.xsd#south32limited_RevenueGroupProduction" xlink:label="south32limited_RevenueGroupProduction" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_CashAndCashEquivalents" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CashAndCashEquivalents" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_DescriptionOfNatureOfEntitysOperationsAndPrincipalActivities" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DescriptionOfNatureOfEntitysOperationsAndPrincipalActivities" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="south32limited-2022-06-30.xsd#south32limited_AdjustmentsForOtherNonCashOrNonOperatingItems" xlink:label="south32limited_AdjustmentsForOtherNonCashOrNonOperatingItems" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_DeferredTaxAssets" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DeferredTaxAssets" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_OtherCurrentFinancialAssets" xlink:label="ifrs-full_OtherCurrentFinancialAssets" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_CurrentLiabilities" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CurrentLiabilities" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_NoncurrentPayables" xlink:label="ifrs-full_NoncurrentPayables" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_NameOfUltimateParentOfGroup" xlink:label="ifrs-full_NameOfUltimateParentOfGroup" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="south32limited-2022-06-30.xsd#south32limited_ProceedsFromFinancialAssetsRelatingToInvestingActivities" xlink:label="south32limited_ProceedsFromFinancialAssetsRelatingToInvestingActivities" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_FinanceIncome" xlink:label="ifrs-full_FinanceIncome" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="south32limited-2022-06-30.xsd#south32limited_ShareBuyBackRelatingToFinancingActivities" xlink:label="south32limited_ShareBuyBackRelatingToFinancingActivities" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_Inventories" xlink:label="ifrs-full_Inventories" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_ProfitLossFromDiscontinuedOperations" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ProfitLossFromDiscontinuedOperations" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_CurrentBorrowingsAndCurrentPortionOfNoncurrentBorrowings" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CurrentBorrowingsAndCurrentPortionOfNoncurrentBorrowings" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="south32limited-2022-06-30.xsd#south32limited_AcquisitionOfSubsidiariesAndJointOperationsNetOfTheirCash" xlink:label="south32limited_AcquisitionOfSubsidiariesAndJointOperationsNetOfTheirCash" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_NoncurrentReceivables" xlink:label="ifrs-full_NoncurrentReceivables" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_DeferredTaxLiabilities" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DeferredTaxLiabilities" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_OtherCashPaymentsToAcquireInterestsInJointVenturesClassifiedAsInvestingActivities" xlink:label="ifrs-full_OtherCashPaymentsToAcquireInterestsInJointVenturesClassifiedAsInvestingActivities" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_IncomeTaxRelatingToInvestmentsInEquityInstrumentsOfOtherComprehensiveIncome" xlink:label="ifrs-full_IncomeTaxRelatingToInvestmentsInEquityInstrumentsOfOtherComprehensiveIncome" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_CashFlowsFromUsedInFinancingActivities" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CashFlowsFromUsedInFinancingActivities" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_DilutedEarningsLossPerShareFromContinuingOperations" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DilutedEarningsLossPerShareFromContinuingOperations" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_AdjustmentsForIncreaseDecreaseInTradeAndOtherPayables" xlink:label="ifrs-full_AdjustmentsForIncreaseDecreaseInTradeAndOtherPayables" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="south32limited-2022-06-30.xsd#south32limited_ProfitLossBeforeTaxFromADiscontinuedOperation" xlink:label="south32limited_ProfitLossBeforeTaxFromADiscontinuedOperation" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_OtherComprehensiveIncomeThatWillBeReclassifiedToProfitOrLossNetOfTax" xlink:label="ifrs-full_OtherComprehensiveIncomeThatWillBeReclassifiedToProfitOrLossNetOfTax" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_TreasuryShares" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TreasuryShares" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_OtherCurrentFinancialLiabilities" xlink:label="ifrs-full_OtherCurrentFinancialLiabilities" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_CashFlowsFromUsedInInvestingActivities" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CashFlowsFromUsedInInvestingActivities" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="south32limited-2022-06-30.xsd#south32limited_RevenueThirdPartyProductsAndServices" xlink:label="south32limited_RevenueThirdPartyProductsAndServices" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_EffectOfExchangeRateChangesOnCashAndCashEquivalents" xlink:label="ifrs-full_EffectOfExchangeRateChangesOnCashAndCashEquivalents" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_AdjustmentsForProvisions" xlink:label="ifrs-full_AdjustmentsForProvisions" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_FinanceIncomeCost" xlink:label="ifrs-full_FinanceIncomeCost" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_AdjustmentsForSharebasedPayments" xlink:label="ifrs-full_AdjustmentsForSharebasedPayments" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_Revenue" xlink:label="ifrs-full_Revenue" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_OtherComprehensiveIncomeBeforeTaxGainsLossesFromInvestmentsInEquityInstruments" xlink:label="ifrs-full_OtherComprehensiveIncomeBeforeTaxGainsLossesFromInvestmentsInEquityInstruments" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_ProfitLossFromContinuingOperations" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ProfitLossFromContinuingOperations" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_ComprehensiveIncomeAttributableToOwnersOfParent" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ComprehensiveIncomeAttributableToOwnersOfParent" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_PropertyPlantAndEquipment" xlink:label="ifrs-full_PropertyPlantAndEquipment" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_AdjustmentsForDecreaseIncreaseInTradeAndOtherReceivables" xlink:label="ifrs-full_AdjustmentsForDecreaseIncreaseInTradeAndOtherReceivables" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_ProfitLossBeforeTax" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ProfitLossBeforeTax" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_NameOfParentEntity" xlink:label="ifrs-full_NameOfParentEntity" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_ProfitLossAttributableToOwnersOfParent" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ProfitLossAttributableToOwnersOfParent" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="south32limited-2022-06-30.xsd#south32limited_CashOutflowsFromInvestingActivities" xlink:label="south32limited_CashOutflowsFromInvestingActivities" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_CurrentDeferredIncomeOtherThanCurrentContractLiabilities" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CurrentDeferredIncomeOtherThanCurrentContractLiabilities" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_DilutedEarningsLossPerShare" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DilutedEarningsLossPerShare" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="south32limited-2022-06-30.xsd#south32limited_ExplorationExpenditureExpensedAndIncludedInOperatingCashFlows" xlink:label="south32limited_ExplorationExpenditureExpensedAndIncludedInOperatingCashFlows" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_FinanceCosts" xlink:label="ifrs-full_FinanceCosts" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="south32limited-2022-06-30.xsd#south32limited_DividendsReceivedFromEquityAccountedInvestmentsRelatingToOperatingActivities" xlink:label="south32limited_DividendsReceivedFromEquityAccountedInvestmentsRelatingToOperatingActivities" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="south32limited-2022-06-30.xsd#south32limited_ProfitLossFromContinuingOperationsGroupProduction" xlink:label="south32limited_ProfitLossFromContinuingOperationsGroupProduction" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_ShareOfOtherComprehensiveIncomeOfAssociatesAndJointVenturesAccountedForUsingEquityMethodThatWillBeReclassifiedToProfitOrLossNetOfTax" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ShareOfOtherComprehensiveIncomeOfAssociatesAndJointVenturesAccountedForUsingEquityMethodThatWillBeReclassifiedToProfitOrLossNetOfTax" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_RetainedEarnings" xlink:label="ifrs-full_RetainedEarnings" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_PurchaseOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentClassifiedAsInvestingActivities" xlink:label="ifrs-full_PurchaseOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentClassifiedAsInvestingActivities" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_OtherCurrentAssets" xlink:label="ifrs-full_OtherCurrentAssets" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_IssuedCapital" xlink:label="ifrs-full_IssuedCapital" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_Liabilities" xlink:label="ifrs-full_Liabilities" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="south32limited-2022-06-30.xsd#south32limited_ProceedsFromSaleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentAndIntangiblesRelatingToInvestingActivities" xlink:label="south32limited_ProceedsFromSaleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentAndIntangiblesRelatingToInvestingActivities" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_CurrentAssets" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CurrentAssets" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_OtherNoncurrentAssets" xlink:label="ifrs-full_OtherNoncurrentAssets" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_PurchaseOfIntangibleAssetsClassifiedAsInvestingActivities" xlink:label="ifrs-full_PurchaseOfIntangibleAssetsClassifiedAsInvestingActivities" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_NameOfReportingEntityOrOtherMeansOfIdentification" xlink:label="ifrs-full_NameOfReportingEntityOrOtherMeansOfIdentification" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_CountryOfIncorporation" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CountryOfIncorporation" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="south32limited-2022-06-30.xsd#south32limited_ExplorationExpenditureRelatingToInvestingActivities" xlink:label="south32limited_ExplorationExpenditureRelatingToInvestingActivities" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="south32limited-2022-06-30.xsd#south32limited_AdjustmentsForNonCashOrNonOperatingSignificantItems" xlink:label="south32limited_AdjustmentsForNonCashOrNonOperatingSignificantItems" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="south32limited-2022-06-30.xsd#south32limited_PurchaseOfSharesByEmployeeShareOwnershipPlanESOPTrustsRelatingToFinancingActivities" xlink:label="south32limited_PurchaseOfSharesByEmployeeShareOwnershipPlanESOPTrustsRelatingToFinancingActivities" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_DomicileOfEntity" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DomicileOfEntity" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_AdjustmentsForDecreaseIncreaseInInventories" xlink:label="ifrs-full_AdjustmentsForDecreaseIncreaseInInventories" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_OtherComprehensiveIncomeBeforeTaxGainsLossesOnRemeasurementsOfDefinedBenefitPlans" xlink:label="ifrs-full_OtherComprehensiveIncomeBeforeTaxGainsLossesOnRemeasurementsOfDefinedBenefitPlans" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_OtherNoncurrentFinancialAssets" xlink:label="ifrs-full_OtherNoncurrentFinancialAssets" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_CashFlowsFromUsedInOperatingActivities" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CashFlowsFromUsedInOperatingActivities" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_ProfitLossFromOperatingActivities" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ProfitLossFromOperatingActivities" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_AdjustmentsForFinanceIncomeCost" xlink:label="ifrs-full_AdjustmentsForFinanceIncomeCost" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_InvestmentAccountedForUsingEquityMethod" xlink:label="ifrs-full_InvestmentAccountedForUsingEquityMethod" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_NetAssetsLiabilities" xlink:label="ifrs-full_NetAssetsLiabilities" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_RepaymentsOfBorrowingsClassifiedAsFinancingActivities" xlink:label="ifrs-full_RepaymentsOfBorrowingsClassifiedAsFinancingActivities" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="south32limited-2022-06-30.xsd#south32limited_ProfitLossFromContinuingOperationsThirdPartyProductsAndServices" xlink:label="south32limited_ProfitLossFromContinuingOperationsThirdPartyProductsAndServices" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_NoncurrentInventories" xlink:label="ifrs-full_NoncurrentInventories" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_OtherIncome" xlink:label="ifrs-full_OtherIncome" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_IncreaseDecreaseInCashAndCashEquivalentsBeforeEffectOfExchangeRateChanges" xlink:label="ifrs-full_IncreaseDecreaseInCashAndCashEquivalentsBeforeEffectOfExchangeRateChanges" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_AdjustmentsForDepreciationAndAmortisationExpense" xlink:label="ifrs-full_AdjustmentsForDepreciationAndAmortisationExpense" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_EquityAttributableToOwnersOfParent" xlink:label="ifrs-full_EquityAttributableToOwnersOfParent" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://www.esma.europa.eu/taxonomy/2021-03-24/esef_cor.xsd#esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:label="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_TradeAndOtherCurrentPayables" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TradeAndOtherCurrentPayables" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_AdjustmentsForFairValueGainsLosses" xlink:label="ifrs-full_AdjustmentsForFairValueGainsLosses" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_CurrentTaxAssets" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CurrentTaxAssets" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="south32limited-2022-06-30.xsd#south32limited_AdjustmentsForLossOnDisposalOfADiscontinuedOperation" xlink:label="south32limited_AdjustmentsForLossOnDisposalOfADiscontinuedOperation" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_LegalFormOfEntity" xlink:label="ifrs-full_LegalFormOfEntity" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_ProceedsFromBorrowingsClassifiedAsFinancingActivities" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ProceedsFromBorrowingsClassifiedAsFinancingActivities" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_Assets" xlink:label="ifrs-full_Assets" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_LongtermBorrowings" xlink:label="ifrs-full_LongtermBorrowings" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_CurrentTaxLiabilities" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CurrentTaxLiabilities" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_TradeAndOtherCurrentReceivables" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TradeAndOtherCurrentReceivables" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_NoncontrollingInterests" xlink:label="ifrs-full_NoncontrollingInterests" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_CashFlowsFromLosingControlOfSubsidiariesOrOtherBusinessesClassifiedAsInvestingActivities" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CashFlowsFromLosingControlOfSubsidiariesOrOtherBusinessesClassifiedAsInvestingActivities" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_IncomeTaxRelatingToComponentsOfOtherComprehensiveIncomeThatWillNotBeReclassifiedToProfitOrLoss" xlink:label="ifrs-full_IncomeTaxRelatingToComponentsOfOtherComprehensiveIncomeThatWillNotBeReclassifiedToProfitOrLoss" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_CashFlowsFromUsedInOperations" xlink:label="ifrs-full_CashFlowsFromUsedInOperations" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_OtherReserves" xlink:label="ifrs-full_OtherReserves" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="south32limited-2022-06-30.xsd#south32limited_CommonControlTransactionReserveIncludedWithinOtherReserves" xlink:label="south32limited_CommonControlTransactionReserveIncludedWithinOtherReserves" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_InterestReceivedClassifiedAsOperatingActivities" xlink:label="ifrs-full_InterestReceivedClassifiedAsOperatingActivities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="south32limited_RevenueGroupProduction" order="1" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="south32limited_RevenueThirdPartyProductsAndServices" order="2" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_Revenue" order="3" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_OtherIncome" order="4" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="south32limited_ExpensesExcludingNetFinanceCosts" order="5" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ShareOfProfitLossOfAssociatesAndJointVenturesAccountedForUsingEquityMethod" order="6" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ProfitLossFromOperatingActivities" order="7" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="south32limited_ProfitLossFromContinuingOperationsGroupProduction" order="8" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="south32limited_ProfitLossFromContinuingOperationsThirdPartyProductsAndServices" order="9" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_FinanceCosts" order="10" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_FinanceIncome" order="11" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_FinanceIncomeCost" order="12" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ProfitLossBeforeTax" order="13" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_IncomeTaxExpenseContinuingOperations" order="14" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ProfitLossFromContinuingOperations" order="15" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ProfitLossFromDiscontinuedOperations" order="16" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ProfitLossAttributableToOwnersOfParent" order="17" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_BasicEarningsLossPerShareFromContinuingOperations" order="18" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DilutedEarningsLossPerShareFromContinuingOperations" order="19" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_BasicEarningsLossPerShare" order="20" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DilutedEarningsLossPerShare" order="21" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ShareOfOtherComprehensiveIncomeOfAssociatesAndJointVenturesAccountedForUsingEquityMethodThatWillBeReclassifiedToProfitOrLossNetOfTax" order="22" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_OtherComprehensiveIncomeThatWillBeReclassifiedToProfitOrLossNetOfTax" order="23" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_OtherComprehensiveIncomeBeforeTaxGainsLossesFromInvestmentsInEquityInstruments" order="24" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_IncomeTaxRelatingToInvestmentsInEquityInstrumentsOfOtherComprehensiveIncome" order="25" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ShareOfOtherComprehensiveIncomeOfAssociatesAndJointVenturesAccountedForUsingEquityMethodThatWillNotBeReclassifiedToProfitOrLossNetOfTax" order="26" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_OtherComprehensiveIncomeBeforeTaxGainsLossesOnRemeasurementsOfDefinedBenefitPlans" order="27" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_IncomeTaxRelatingToComponentsOfOtherComprehensiveIncomeThatWillNotBeReclassifiedToProfitOrLoss" order="28" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_OtherComprehensiveIncomeThatWillNotBeReclassifiedToProfitOrLossNetOfTax" order="29" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ComprehensiveIncomeAttributableToOwnersOfParent" order="30" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CashAndCashEquivalents" order="31" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TradeAndOtherCurrentReceivables" order="32" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_OtherCurrentFinancialAssets" order="33" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_Inventories" order="34" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CurrentTaxAssets" order="35" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_OtherCurrentAssets" order="36" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CurrentAssets" order="37" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_NoncurrentReceivables" order="38" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_OtherNoncurrentFinancialAssets" order="39" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_NoncurrentInventories" order="40" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_PropertyPlantAndEquipment" order="41" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_IntangibleAssetsAndGoodwill" order="42" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_InvestmentAccountedForUsingEquityMethod" order="43" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DeferredTaxAssets" order="44" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_OtherNoncurrentAssets" order="45" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_NoncurrentAssets" order="46" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_Assets" order="47" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TradeAndOtherCurrentPayables" order="48" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CurrentBorrowingsAndCurrentPortionOfNoncurrentBorrowings" order="49" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_OtherCurrentFinancialLiabilities" order="50" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CurrentTaxLiabilities" order="51" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CurrentProvisions" order="52" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CurrentDeferredIncomeOtherThanCurrentContractLiabilities" order="53" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CurrentLiabilities" order="54" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_NoncurrentPayables" order="55" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_LongtermBorrowings" order="56" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_OtherNoncurrentFinancialLiabilities" order="57" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DeferredTaxLiabilities" order="58" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_NoncurrentProvisions" order="59" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_NoncurrentDeferredIncomeOtherThanNoncurrentContractLiabilities" order="60" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_NoncurrentLiabilities" order="61" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_Liabilities" order="62" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_NetAssetsLiabilities" order="63" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_IssuedCapital" order="64" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TreasuryShares" order="65" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_OtherReserves" order="66" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_RetainedEarnings" order="67" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_EquityAttributableToOwnersOfParent" order="68" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_NoncontrollingInterests" order="69" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="south32limited_ProfitLossBeforeTaxFromADiscontinuedOperation" order="70" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="south32limited_AdjustmentsForNonCashOrNonOperatingSignificantItems" order="71" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_AdjustmentsForDepreciationAndAmortisationExpense" order="72" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="south32limited_AdjustmentsForNetImpairmentLossReversalOfFinancialAssets" order="73" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="south32limited_AdjustmentsForNetImpairmentLossReversalOfNonFinancialAssets" order="74" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_AdjustmentsForSharebasedPayments" order="75" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_AdjustmentsForFinanceIncomeCost" order="76" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="south32limited_AdjustmentsForShareOfProfitLossOfEquityAccountedInvestments" order="77" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="south32limited_AdjustmentsForLossOnDisposalOfADiscontinuedOperation" order="78" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_AdjustmentsForFairValueGainsLosses" order="79" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="south32limited_AdjustmentsForOtherNonCashOrNonOperatingItems" order="80" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_AdjustmentsForDecreaseIncreaseInTradeAndOtherReceivables" order="81" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_AdjustmentsForDecreaseIncreaseInInventories" order="82" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_AdjustmentsForIncreaseDecreaseInTradeAndOtherPayables" order="83" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_AdjustmentsForProvisions" order="84" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CashFlowsFromUsedInOperations" order="85" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_InterestReceivedClassifiedAsOperatingActivities" order="86" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_InterestPaidClassifiedAsOperatingActivities" order="87" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_IncomeTaxesPaidRefundClassifiedAsOperatingActivities" order="88" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DividendsReceivedClassifiedAsOperatingActivities" order="89" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="south32limited_DividendsReceivedFromEquityAccountedInvestmentsRelatingToOperatingActivities" order="90" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CashFlowsFromUsedInOperatingActivities" order="91" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_PurchaseOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentClassifiedAsInvestingActivities" order="92" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="south32limited_ExplorationExpenditureRelatingToInvestingActivities" order="93" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="south32limited_ExplorationExpenditureExpensedAndIncludedInOperatingCashFlows" order="94" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_PurchaseOfIntangibleAssetsClassifiedAsInvestingActivities" order="95" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="south32limited_InvestmentInFinancialAssetsRelatingToInvestingActivities" order="96" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="south32limited_AcquisitionOfSubsidiariesAndJointOperationsNetOfTheirCash" order="97" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_OtherCashPaymentsToAcquireInterestsInJointVenturesClassifiedAsInvestingActivities" order="98" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CashFlowsFromLosingControlOfSubsidiariesOrOtherBusinessesClassifiedAsInvestingActivities" order="99" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="south32limited_CashOutflowsFromInvestingActivities" order="100" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="south32limited_ProceedsFromSaleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentAndIntangiblesRelatingToInvestingActivities" order="101" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="south32limited_ProceedsFromFinancialAssetsRelatingToInvestingActivities" order="102" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CashFlowsFromUsedInInvestingActivities" order="103" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ProceedsFromBorrowingsClassifiedAsFinancingActivities" order="104" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_RepaymentsOfBorrowingsClassifiedAsFinancingActivities" order="105" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="south32limited_PurchaseOfSharesByEmployeeShareOwnershipPlanESOPTrustsRelatingToFinancingActivities" order="106" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="south32limited_ShareBuyBackRelatingToFinancingActivities" order="107" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DividendsPaidClassifiedAsFinancingActivities" order="108" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CashFlowsFromUsedInFinancingActivities" order="109" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_IncreaseDecreaseInCashAndCashEquivalentsBeforeEffectOfExchangeRateChanges" order="110" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_EffectOfExchangeRateChangesOnCashAndCashEquivalents" order="111" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="south32limited_CommonControlTransactionReserveIncludedWithinOtherReserves" order="112" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_NameOfReportingEntityOrOtherMeansOfIdentification" order="113" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_LegalFormOfEntity" order="114" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_CountryOfIncorporation" order="115" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DescriptionOfNatureOfEntitysOperationsAndPrincipalActivities" order="116" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_NameOfParentEntity" order="117" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DomicileOfEntity" order="118" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_NameOfUltimateParentOfGroup" order="119" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="esef_cor_LineItemsNotDimensionallyQualifiedPlaceholder" xlink:to="ifrs-full_AddressOfRegisteredOfficeOfEntity" order="120" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://south32limited.com/xbrl/2021/roles/StatementOfChangesInEquity" xlink:type="extended" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_StatementOfChangesInEquityAbstract" xlink:label="ifrs-full_StatementOfChangesInEquityAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_DividendsPaid" xlink:label="ifrs-full_DividendsPaid" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_EquityAttributableToOwnersOfParentMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_EquityAttributableToOwnersOfParentMember" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_TreasurySharesMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_TreasurySharesMember" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_OtherComprehensiveIncome" xlink:label="ifrs-full_OtherComprehensiveIncome" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_ComprehensiveIncome" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ComprehensiveIncome" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="south32limited-2022-06-30.xsd#south32limited_EmployeeShareAwardsReserveMember" xlink:label="south32limited_EmployeeShareAwardsReserveMember" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="south32limited-2022-06-30.xsd#south32limited_TransferOfCumulativeFairValueLossOnAnInvestmentInEquityInstrumentsDesignatedAsFVOCI" xlink:label="south32limited_TransferOfCumulativeFairValueLossOnAnInvestmentInEquityInstrumentsDesignatedAsFVOCI" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="south32limited-2022-06-30.xsd#south32limited_EmployeeShareAwardsVestedAndLapsedNetOfTax" xlink:label="south32limited_EmployeeShareAwardsVestedAndLapsedNetOfTax" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="south32limited-2022-06-30.xsd#south32limited_SharesBoughtBackAndCancelled" xlink:label="south32limited_SharesBoughtBackAndCancelled" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_ProfitLoss" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ProfitLoss" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_ReserveOfGainsAndLossesOnFinancialAssetsMeasuredAtFairValueThroughOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ReserveOfGainsAndLossesOnFinancialAssetsMeasuredAtFairValueThroughOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_RetainedEarningsMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_RetainedEarningsMember" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_IssuedCapitalMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_IssuedCapitalMember" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_OtherReservesMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_OtherReservesMember" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_IncreaseDecreaseThroughTreasuryShareTransactions" xlink:label="ifrs-full_IncreaseDecreaseThroughTreasuryShareTransactions" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_Equity" xlink:label="ifrs-full_Equity" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_NoncontrollingInterestsMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_NoncontrollingInterestsMember" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="south32limited-2022-06-30.xsd#south32limited_EmployeeShareEntitlementsForUnvestedAwardsNetOfTax" xlink:label="south32limited_EmployeeShareEntitlementsForUnvestedAwardsNetOfTax" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_ComponentsOfEquityAxis" xlink:label="ifrs-full_ComponentsOfEquityAxis" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_StatementOfChangesInEquityTable" xlink:label="ifrs-full_StatementOfChangesInEquityTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_EquityMember" xlink:label="ifrs-full_EquityMember" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.ifrs.org/taxonomy/2021-03-24/full_ifrs/full_ifrs-cor_2021-03-24.xsd#ifrs-full_StatementOfChangesInEquityLineItems" xlink:label="ifrs-full_StatementOfChangesInEquityLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_StatementOfChangesInEquityAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_StatementOfChangesInEquityTable" order="1" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" priority="1" xbrldt:contextElement="scenario" xbrldt:closed="true" xmlns:xbrldt="http://xbrl.org/2005/xbrldt" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_StatementOfChangesInEquityTable" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ComponentsOfEquityAxis" order="0" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_ComponentsOfEquityAxis" xlink:to="ifrs-full_EquityMember" order="0" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_EquityMember" xlink:to="ifrs-full_EquityAttributableToOwnersOfParentMember" order="0" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_EquityAttributableToOwnersOfParentMember" xlink:to="ifrs-full_IssuedCapitalMember" order="0" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_EquityAttributableToOwnersOfParentMember" xlink:to="ifrs-full_TreasurySharesMember" order="1" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_EquityAttributableToOwnersOfParentMember" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ReserveOfGainsAndLossesOnFinancialAssetsMeasuredAtFairValueThroughOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember" order="2" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_EquityAttributableToOwnersOfParentMember" xlink:to="south32limited_EmployeeShareAwardsReserveMember" order="3" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_EquityAttributableToOwnersOfParentMember" xlink:to="ifrs-full_OtherReservesMember" order="4" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_EquityAttributableToOwnersOfParentMember" xlink:to="ifrs-full_RetainedEarningsMember" order="5" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_EquityMember" xlink:to="ifrs-full_NoncontrollingInterestsMember" order="1" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_StatementOfChangesInEquityAbstract" xlink:to="ifrs-full_StatementOfChangesInEquityLineItems" order="1" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_StatementOfChangesInEquityLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_Equity" order="0" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_StatementOfChangesInEquityLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ProfitLoss" order="1" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_StatementOfChangesInEquityLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_OtherComprehensiveIncome" order="2" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_StatementOfChangesInEquityLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_ComprehensiveIncome" order="3" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_StatementOfChangesInEquityLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_DividendsPaid" order="4" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_StatementOfChangesInEquityLineItems" xlink:to="south32limited_SharesBoughtBackAndCancelled" order="5" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_StatementOfChangesInEquityLineItems" xlink:to="south32limited_EmployeeShareEntitlementsForUnvestedAwardsNetOfTax" order="6" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_StatementOfChangesInEquityLineItems" xlink:to="south32limited_EmployeeShareAwardsVestedAndLapsedNetOfTax" order="7" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_StatementOfChangesInEquityLineItems" xlink:to="ifrs-full_IncreaseDecreaseThroughTreasuryShareTransactions" order="8" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="ifrs-full_StatementOfChangesInEquityLineItems" xlink:to="south32limited_TransferOfCumulativeFairValueLossOnAnInvestmentInEquityInstrumentsDesignatedAsFVOCI" order="9" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" priority="1" />
  </definitionLink>
</linkbase>