In September the Mayor, Deputy Mayor, and CEO travelled to Canberra to meet with Federal Ministers and officials. Discussions cantered on addressing the critical housing shortage in the Pilbara. We called for federal support in unlocking land for future development, implementing tax incentives for Pilbara residents, and recognising housing as critical economic infrastructure.

Key Facts:

• The Pilbara generates $117 billion in economic output every year with a population of just 60,000.
• That’s a $375 contribution per hour worked in the Pilbara vs. $56 elsewhere in Australia.
• With $170 billion in future projects—nearly half in clean energy—we are crucial to Australia’s economy and net zero goals.

But we face a housing shortage threatening these projects. We need 2,200 new homes in the next 5 years to support our growing community.

During the meetings we highlighted the City’s efforts to increase housing supply. We also urged the Government to support funding for new projects that will unlock land for future development, consider tax incentives for Pilbara residents, and recognise housing as critical economic infrastructure.

We look forward to progressing these discussions and will keep working with all levels of Government to make Karratha Australia’s Most Liveable Regional City and ensure our community’s voice is heard.