BHP invests $160m in Port Hedland community infrastructure
Port Hedland will get a new aquatic centre and housing as well as a major upgrade to its high school following a $160 million injection from BHP.
The investment will fund a suite of projects aimed at strengthening services, infrastructure and housing in the Pilbara hub to accommodate population and economic growth.
A key component is an $80 million redevelopment of Hedland Senior High School, with plans for new design and technology facilities to support hands-on learning and help build skills to meet future workforce needs. The final scope of the project will be determined by the Education Department, with the initial stages expected to be completed by early 2029.
BHP will also contribute $20 million towards a new aquatic centre in South Hedland, complementing a $22.5 million State Government investment, with construction due to start in 2028.
In addition, $10 million has been allocated for new service worker accommodation in South Hedland, delivering 56 apartment-style dwellings to support essential services.
BHP Australia President Geraldine Slattery said regional communities “don’t happen by chance”.
“They're built by people and supported by partnerships that last,” she said.
"This is BHP's biggest community investment in Western Australia. It will help young people get a good education, build great local facilities and ensure more housing for the people who deliver vital services to the region.”
Supporting the regions
The initiative aligns with broader efforts to increase housing supply in the Pilbara, including delivery of Government Regional Officer Housing (GROH) as part of the State Budget, supported by contributions from major resources companies.
Launched in 2022, the RCII enables partnerships between government and the resources sector to co-fund infrastructure and community projects across regional WA, with a focus on supporting long-term economic development in key centres such as Port Hedland.
“I want to thank BHP for their contribution to these projects, which will make Port Hedland an even better place to live, work and raise a family and help realise my government’s Seven Cities vision,” Premier Roger Cook said.
“I want Western Australia’s economy to remain the strongest in the nation.
“That’s why it’s so important for us to continue investing in the Pilbara, our State’s economic powerhouse.”
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