Industry

The Pilbara is often described as the engine room of the nation because of its significant contribution to the national wealth. Its immense reserves of natural resources provide massive direct export sales and also fuel a thriving economy of support services, but the Pilbara is much more than mineral resources. Tourism, sheep and cattle, fishing and aquaculture all figure prominently in the economy of the region, providing a diversity of activity - and a range of business opportunities.

The Pilbara's economy is dominated by the mining and petroleum industries and is considered to be the State's premier mining region. In 2004/05, the Pilbara contributed over 62% of the value of Western Australia's mineral and petroluem production. The Department of Local Government and Regional Development estimates the Pilbara Gross Regional Product was $4.8 billion in 2004/05, a 23.8% increase compared to the previous year.

The production value of the Regional's mining and petroleum industries was $20.6 billion in 2004/05, with oil and condensate valued at $7.2 billion, iron ore valued at $8.0 billion and gas (LNG, LPG, Natural Gas) valued at $4.8 billion. Other minerals extracted in the Region include salt, silver, gold, manganese and base metals.    

Manufacturing consisting mainly of small businesses supplying the regional market, and an estimated sales and service income of $309.1 million in 2001/02. At that time, the manufacturing sector employed 5.3% of the region's workforce.

Tourism has contributed $172.0 million to the Pilbara economy. On average, 303,800 overnight visitors came to the Region during 2003 and 2004.

Total agricultural production was valued at $46.0 million in 2003/04. This comprised predominantly of livestock disposals (97% of agricultural production) valued at $45.2 million.

The total fishing catch for the Region in 2004/05 was 3,947 tonnes and was valued at $15.3 million. The catch was made up primarily of finfish and prawns.

While the mineral and petroleum sectors will continue to be the mainstay of the Pilbara’s economy, the region is continuing to diversify and expand its economic base with the continued development of its tourism, retail, trade and agricultural industries.

Further information and contact details of Pilbara Employment Agencies, Education, Resource Companies,  Real Estate Agents and Government Agencies are available here.