Port Hedland Residents Allege WA Goverment Prioritizes Industry Over Water Security
PORT HEDLAND, WA – A Karriyarra elder is accusing the western Australian government of treating Port Hedland’s dwindling water supply like a ”lolly shop,” prioritizing economic interests over the needs of residents. The claims come as the town faces a deepening water crisis, prompting renewed calls for major miners operating in the region to accelerate desalination projects.
Ms. Mason’s concerns reflect a long-standing pattern of issues impacting the town, including dust suppression problems and a government buyback scheme that led to the voluntary disappearance of entire Port Hedland suburbs. She alleges the state government is favouring the economy and neglecting the people who elected them. ”The state government are favouring the economy … not thinking about the people [who] elected them,” she said.
Port Hedland, a crucial hub for iron ore exports, relies heavily on groundwater. Residents fear increasing industrial demand is exacerbating the water shortage, threatening the town’s long-term viability. Ms. Mason is echoing calls for the region’s major mining companies to expedite their own desalination plans, arguing they should not be permitted to draw from the groundwater supply, which is essential for the community.
“We need to survive – without water, we can’t survive,” Ms. Mason stated. The situation highlights a growing tension between industrial development and the sustainability of resources in Western Australia’s Pilbara region.