Goldfields–Esperance region

The Goldfields area is best known for its rich history in gold mining and the Esperance area for its agriculture sector and world-class coastal attractions. With a geographic area of over 950,000 square kilometres – the largest region in Western Australia – the Goldfields-Esperance region consists of ten local government areas and has major regional centres in Kalgoorlie and Esperance.

Key statistics*

Estimated resident population: 53,914

Gross regional product: $21.9 billion

Key strengths

  • Resources, and agriculture and food
  • Road, rail and port access
  • Significant Aboriginal population, culture and heritage

Infrastructure directions

  • Support resources value-adding and supply-chain efficiency
  • Plan and adapt service delivery and infrastructure to accommodate population change and structural readjustment
  • Support and advance Aboriginal enterprise and improve the liveability of remote Aboriginal communities and town-based reserves

While Goldfields-Esperance region is distinct, consultation highlighted that many regions face shared challenges and opportunities that need to be addressed to achieve the Strategy’s vision. As such, the majority of the Strategy’s 93 recommendations apply to Goldfields-Esperance and other regions. It is expected that the unique circumstances of each region are taken into account when implementing recommendations.

* Adapted from Australian Bureau of Statistics, Regional population: 2019–20 financial year; Department of Jobs, Tourism, Science and Innovation, Western Australia economic profile – May 2021.