Published on Tuesday, 5 May 2026 at 1:20:23 PM
At last week’s Ordinary Council Meeting, councillors endorsed joining the Australian Mining Cities Alliance - a national partnership of local governments representing communities that host and support Australia’s mining industry.
While mining is central to Port Hedland’s economy and national significance, it also places ongoing pressure on the community, particularly in areas such as housing availability, essential services, and infrastructure capacity.
Mayor Jacinta Behrend said joining the alliance recognises that being a mining town comes with challenges that extend far beyond economic contribution.
“Port Hedland plays a critical role in supporting Australia’s mining industry; however, our community also lives with the impacts that come with it.”
“Collective advocacy gives communities like ours a stronger voice at state and federal levels, helping decision‑makers better understand the realities on the ground”, said Mayor Behrend.
“By joining this Alliance, the Town strengthens its ability to champion for outcomes that directly benefit our residents."
The Australian Mining Cities Alliance works to ensure mining‑host communities receive fair policy attention, infrastructure investment and long‑term planning support that reflects both their economic contribution and the demands placed on them.
The Town of Port Hedland will join an established alliance that already includes the Cities of Kalgoorlie‑Boulder and Karratha, the Shire of East Pilbara, the City of Broken Hill, Mount Isa City Council and Isaac Regional Council.
Membership of the Alliance allows Port Hedland to collaborate with other mining communities facing similar challenges, share evidence and insights, and push for solutions that improve liveability, resilience, and long‑term sustainability.
Importantly, the Town retains full local decision‑making authority while benefiting from coordinated advocacy focused on securing investment and policy settings that support thriving regional communities.
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