This paper describes mining industry funded research that is being undertaken to address the critical gaps and uncertainties in our knowledge so that we can develop new approaches and create more effective ways for predicting the reliability of rock slopes in large open pit mines. It is envisaged that this research will not only lead to more effective pit slope design but further reduce the potential for unforseen geotechnical risks by enabling the geotechnician to communicate the risks more effectively with management and to optimise site specific control measures.