Pilbara region

The Pilbara region is known for its ancient landscapes, rich onshore and offshore resource deposits and one of the world’s largest collections of Aboriginal engraved rock art. With a geographic area of over 500,000 square kilometres, the Pilbara consists of four local government areas, and has key regional centres in Karratha and Port Hedland.

Key statistics*

Estimated resident population: 62,841

Gross regional product: $57.3 billion

Key strengths

  • Globally significant resources sector and largest regional economy
  • Solar resource
  • Significant Aboriginal population, culture and heritage

Infrastructure directions

  • Support resources value-adding, productivity and innovation
  • Support renewable energy and hydrogen industry
  • Support and advance Aboriginal enterprise and improve the liveability of remote Aboriginal communities and town-based reserves

While the Pilbara 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 the Pilbara 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.