West Pilbara water source planning

What's happening?

Planning is underway to identify a new drinking water source for the West Pilbara to meet the region's long-term water needs from the mid 2030s.

Where does West Pilbara/Karratha currently get its water from?

The West Pilbara scheme supplies the towns of Karratha, Wickham, Dampier, Roebourne, Point Samson and the industrial areas of Cape Lambert and the Burrup Peninsula.

Water is sourced from Harding Dam and Millstream borefield, with Rio Tinto contributing from the Bungaroo borefield (owned and operated by Rio Tinto) to meet their operational demand.

To protect our valuable drinking water, some industrial customers on the Burrup Peninsula are also supplied water for industrial use by the Burrup Seawater Supply Scheme.

Why do we need a new water source?

In the future, water availability from Harding Dam and Millstream borefield is forecast to reduce due to the impact of climate change, and the reduction in allocation from the Millstream aquifer by the Department of Water and Environmental Regulation (DWER).

To cater for all possible future scenarios we have commenced planning for an additional long-term source which can supply between five to 13 billion litres per annum.

Due to long lead times for approvals, design and delivery, planning is underway now.

What option is being considered?

The preferred option to supply safe, reliable and climate resilient drinking water for the long-term in the West Pilbara is a seawater desalination plant. Refer to 'frequently asked questions' to read about other options that were considered in our planning. 

What else are we doing to strengthen the West Pilbara water supply?

In November 2025 the WA Government announced an investment to support the long-term sustainability of groundwater from the Millstream aquifer. This work includes relocating or recommissioning groundwater bores to reduce pressure on the vital water source. 

Water security in the West Pilbara will be further secured through the WA Government's partnership with Rio Tinto to double the Dampier Seawater Desalination Plant capacity -  announced on 4 March 2026. Stage 1 of the Plant is already under construction by Rio Tinto. The addition of Stage 2 will supply four billion litres of water to supplement drinking water via the West Pilbara Water Supply Scheme.  

 We will also trial an adjusted to sprinkler roster in the City of Karratha from 1 April, for 6 months. This will see roster change from every second day to three days a week - one less watering day per fortnight. 

What are the next steps?

We’re currently working with key stakeholders to identify and understand the social, environmental, cultural, heritage and operational considerations for a proposed desalination plant and its supporting infrastructure. As the project progresses, we will also engage with the broader community.